Contacts: Laura Smith, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162
Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608-267-9661
MADISON – Governor Jim Doyle today announced $260,000 in funding for Orion Energy Systems to invest in their operations and help retain more than 200 jobs in the state. The funding comes from the State Energy Program (SEP), which is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
“My top priority has been to help companies and communities move forward and create good-paying jobs for Wisconsin families,” Governor Doyle said. “We are moving Wisconsin forward in difficult national economic times by investing in our businesses and making them more efficient and competitive. With this funding, we will be able to help Orion Energy Systems upgrade their leading energy efficiency technologies and retain hundreds of jobs in Wisconsin.”
“’Permanent Distributed Load Reduction’ as demonstrated here at Orion is the best course to chart for America’s energy future,” said Orion Chief Executive Officer Neal Verfuerth. “When energy use is reduced and renewable energy generated at an end-user’s facility, there is no need for costly transmission and the energy loss associated with it.”
Orion Energy Systems (Orion) produces energy management systems for companies worldwide, including energy-efficient light fixtures, wireless control technologies and ”direct use” renewable technologies. The company used SEP funds to purchase solar photovoltaic panels, wiring, and cabling for their Manitowoc facility. The photovoltaic system will allow Orion to capture solar radiation for the purpose of generating renewable electricity. The project is a $1.3 million investment.
Governor Doyle has led major efforts to help Wisconsin manufacturers improve energy efficiency and invest in clean energy technologies. Wisconsin is the only state directing 100 percent of its state energy funds from the Recovery Act – more than $55 million – to help state manufacturers bring down their costs through energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Through the State Energy Program, companies like McCain Foods, TecStar Manufacturing, Helios USA, Nature Tech, ZBB Energy Corporation, Renewegy and Cardinal Glass are already creating thousands of jobs through these investments.
This project builds on Governor Doyle’s efforts to position Wisconsin for future growth. Since taking office in 2003, Governor Doyle has worked aggressively to create and retain jobs in Wisconsin. Governor Doyle’s budget last year created some of the strongest economic development tools in the nation to help businesses create jobs and get people back to work. Wisconsin now has powerful new tax credits to help manufacturers create and retain jobs, new tools to help investors create start-ups, and new incentives to spur research and development.
