WGA to hold “Industrial Energy Efficiency Summit” March 16 -17 in Boise

March 2, 2011
Contact:  Linda Davis (303)-623-9378 ext. 107

DENVER --The Western Governors’ Association will hold an Industrial Energy Efficiency Summit in Boise, Idaho March 16 -17 to discuss successful efficiency programs industries have implemented throughout the West and  the role states can play in assisting industries achieve even greater gains.

On average, a state’s industrial energy use makes up approximately 25 to 30 percent of its total energy use.  Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter, WGA’s Chairman, said reductions in energy use could help improve the bottom line and competitiveness for many companies.

“Industries that institute good internal energy efficiency programs and get technical assistance from local utilities and other partners could reduce their energy intensity by two to three percent each year,” Otter said.  “Achieving up to 15 percent in energy savings over a five-year period would go a long way in improving the bottom line and competitiveness for companies across the West.”

Obstacles many companies face in getting started include capital constraints and limited staff resources, however, state energy offices and utilities can provide valuable assistance.  Successful utility energy efficiency programs include custom and prescribed incentives, technical assistance and training.    Many states also have policies in place to support industries build successful utility programs.

“We will be exploring all the options at the WGA summit on industrial energy efficiency,” Otter said. 

For more information about the meeting and to register, visit the WGA Web site at www.westgov.org.

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