California is a big state with a huge appetite for energy. But a new report says that despite that size and need, the state compares well to others when it comes to energy efficiency. In fact, its per capita energy consumption is among the lowest in the nation."While California consumes the second largest amount of energy in the nation, it is also one of the most energy-efficient states," says a report commissioned by the nonprofit group Next 10. "Compared to all other states, California ranks among the lowest in the nation for both per capita energy consumption and per capita energy spending." 
The state also leads the nation in renewable energy production, and comes in second place when large hydropower is included, the report adds, noting that it is furthermore one of the biggest oil producers in the country. That type of energy diversity, it continues, helps insulate its economy from fluctuating oil and gas prices -- things that have adversely affected Texas and North Dakota. California is thus one of the nation's top job creators.
