Focus on Energy: Eight Wisconsin companies sign Save Energy Now LEADER pledge

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Mark Treichel

Hoffman York

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– Initiative reduces energy use of companies by 25 percent over next 10 years –

DETROIT, Mich. (September 14, 2009) -The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Industrial Technologies Program (ITP) and Focus on Energy, along with more than 300 industry, state and federal leaders, gathered September 9-10, 2009 to accelerate industrial energy efficiency at the Midwest Industrial Energy Efficiency Exchange.

During this event, corporate executives from eleven companies, eight of which were from Wisconsin, were recognized for signing a pledge with the DOE to reduce the energy intensity (energy use per unit of output) of their respective companies by 25 percent or more over the next 10 years. These businesses are among the first to commit to the ambitious and forward-looking Save Energy Now LEADER initiative-a public-private partnership that aims to catalyze significant energy and carbon reductions across the industrial sector.

Through bold commitments to reduce energy use, collaborative research and development, and the mobilization of technical resources across the country, the partnership aims to establish U.S. industry as a global leader in energy efficiency. Wisconsin companies signing the Save Energy Now LEADER pledge include:

* Briggs & Stratton of Wauwatosa

* Didion Milling of Johnson Creek

* Flambeau River Papers of Park Falls

* Neenah Foundry of Neenah

* Manitowoc Grey Iron Foundry of Manitowoc

* Quad/Graphics, Incorporated of Sussex

* Thilmany Papers of Kaukana

* ThyssenKrupp Waupaca of Waupaca

“We need bold and immediate action to reduce our nation’s energy use and carbon emissions,” said DOE ITP Manager Douglas Kaempf. “These companies are leading the way and setting an example for others across the nation.”

According to the DOE, industry accounts for 4 million jobs and 16 percent of the Midwest region’s gross domestic product. It also represents 35 percent of the total energy consumption for the region and 16 percent of the region’s carbon emissions. Several states participating in the Midwest Exchange have declared funding opportunities for local industrial energy efficiency projects as part of state funding received through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Among the opportunities highlighted during the Midwest Exchange was $55 million for a Wisconsin clean energy business loan program.

The Midwest Industrial Energy Efficiency Exchange was co-sponsored by the DOE, the American Public Power Association (APPA), Caterpillar Inc., Cummins, Focus on Energy, CleanTech Partners, Oakridge National Laboratory, International Titanium Powder and the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO).

To learn more about Focus on Energy, Wisconsin’s statewide resource for energy efficiency and renewable energy, and available financial incentives, call (800) 762-7077 or visit focusonenergy.com .

About Focus on Energy

Focus on Energy is the state’s leading resource for energy efficiency and renewable energy information. By working with Focus on Energy, eligible Wisconsin residents and businesses receive the guidance, resources and financial incentives they need to help implement cost-effective energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. In addition, Focus not only assists in the initiation of projects that, otherwise, may not have been realized, but also helps to complete projects ahead of schedule. Ultimately, Focus’ efforts help manage rising energy costs, promote in-state economic development, protect our environment and control the state’s growing demand for electricity and natural gas. For more information, call (800) 762-7077 or visit focusonenergy.com .