Alaska
New Manual - Northern Comfort: Advanced Cold Climate Home Building Techniques: The Alaska Craftsman Home Program, Inc. (ACHP) has published a new manual titled Northern Comfort: Advanced Cold Climate Home Building Techniques. Originally developed for the Advanced Cold Climate Home Building Workshop, the manual has progressed to become a comprehensive reference tool for builders, designers, and homeowners. The goal of Northern Comfort is to illustrate techniques for building and maintaining a quality Northern Home that operates as a system with greater comfort, durability, and long-term energy efficiency. It includes chapters on all aspects of home building, from the foundation to the roof, to the heating and ventilation systems. ACHP works in concert with the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) and Energy Rated Homes of Alaska (ERHA) as an educational, building industry alliance, promoting energy-efficient housing. With AHFC interest rate reductions, the secondary market energy efficiency mortgages, and the home energy rating program at ERHA, ACHP workshops and manuals have become a crucial, educational part of this energy efficiency alliance.

Contact: Sarah Lewis, (907) 258-2247

California
Unique Collaboration Nets 5 Federal Grants: California received five of the U.S. Department of Energy's 14 NICE3 grants this year, thanks in part to an unprecedented coalition of ten state agencies. Under the leadership offered by the California Energy Commission, the following agencies worked together to identify California companies with plans to save energy, cut pollution and encourage recycling: the state's Air Resources Board, Department of Pesticide Regulation, Trade and Commerce Agency, Department of Water Resources, Department of Food and Agriculture, Integrated Waste Management Board, State Water Resources Control Board, Environmental Protection Agency, and Department of Toxic Substances Control. California's grants have a combined value of $1.7 million. Industries selected for the grants include a Lake Elsinore brick manufacturing company with an innovative design for brick kilns that uses half the natural gas and emits 40 percent of the pollution of current kilns; and a Modesto olive processing plant that will recycle water, cut down on pollution and produce animal feed from material presently discarded as waste. A plastics company in Berkeley has developed a way to recover and reuse plastic from automobiles, appliances and electronic and electrical equipment. A pulp paper company in Samoa, near Eureka, will reconfigure their plant to a closed system that will eliminate the discharge of pollutants and wastewater while reducing freshwater consumption by 875 million gallons a year. The fifth award recipient is a San Jose company that will eliminate the need for hazardous, toxic cleaning agents used in the manufacture of semiconductors by using gaseous sulfur trioxide instead. USDOE estimates that the 14 projects together will prevent 163 million tons of pollution nationwide, and will save industrial users more than $6.8 billion by the year 2010.

Contact: Claudia Chandler, (916) 654-4989 and Rob Schlichting, (916) 654-5159

Colorado
Recycling Resources for Businesses: The Governor's Office of Energy Conservation has a variety of recycling resources for businesses. Workshops on "Buying Recycled" are available for industry and purchasing groups. These sessions range from introductory to "train the trainer" sessions. Stay in the Black By Being Green is a new guide explaining how businesses can save money on energy, waste and water. A "Green Pages" section at the back of the guide lists contact information for numerous government and business resources. Office Recycling: Increasing the Bottom Line includes tried and tested steps on how to begin and maintain an office recycling program, and ways to reduce, reuse, buy recycled, and prevent waste. RecycleNet is Colorado's first computerized information network for recyclers. This database of recycling markets strives to provide information on the who, what, and where in the region's recyclable markets.

Contact: Melissa A. Petrone, (303) 620-4292

Solar Thermal Contractor Licensing: The Governor's Office of Energy Conservation is working with the Colorado Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR) Licensing Coalition to introduce statewide licensing for HVACR contractors and journeymen in Colorado. One notable feature of the proposed licensing law is that it creates two licensing classifications for solar thermal contractors. One limits the licensee to work on residential solar installations, and the other allows the licensee to work on residential, commercial and industrial installations. Establishing these solar contractor licenses is a critical step toward increasing the utilization of solar energy in Colorado.

Contact: Marc Roper, (303) 620-4292

Colorado Green Program: As the home building industry moves its construction methods in a "green" direction, builders are taking a broader look at how to conserve energy and lessen a home's impact on the environment. The governor's Office of Energy Conservation and the Home Builders Association of Metro Denver developed the Colorado Green Program to encourage energy and water efficiency, promote the use of recycled or reused materials, and discourage waste during construction. The Colorado Green Program has a checklist of green building strategies that include: respecting the land and using it wisely; choosing appropriate materials; reducing energy consumption; minimizing and reusing waste; and providing a healthy indoor environment.

Contact: Rick Cowlishaw, (303) 620-4292

Florida
Energy Loan Program: The Florida Energy Loan Program (FELP) was designed to encourage and assist Florida's small business operators to take on projects that will result in reducing their energy consumption and costs. Loans are made from a $3,000,000 fund from Petroleum Violation Escrow Funds. The purpose of the program is induce business owners and managers to evaluate their energy usage and then implement energy conservation measures (ECMs) identified by the energy auditor. Eligible borrowers include all for-profit Florida businesses with a maximum of 200 employees, located in and properly licensed by Florida, who can show a two-year profitability outlook prior to loan request. Apartments, condominiums, private schools and other non-profit organizations are not eligible at this time.

Contact: Juan Carlos Abril, (305) 348-3630

Energy Conservation Assistance Program: Florida's State Energy Conservation Program is funding a project called the Energy Conservation Assistance Program. The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network provides seven Energy Specialists who encourage business firms to seek energy audits and increase their knowledge of energy efficiency and conservation. The SBDC also assists businesses with hands-on, one-to-one analyses and related financial counseling leading to implementation of energy conservation measures (ECMs). The SBDC also markets the Florida Energy Loan Program (FELP) in which they provide energy audits; after the survey is completed, the potential borrower is assisted with the energy loan application.

Contact: Katherine Hoelscher, (904) 444-2060

Hawaii
Photovoltaic Energy Project: The Energy Division co-sponsored with the Hawaii State Department of Education a statewide program for public intermediate and high school students to design, build and demonstrate model solar-powered vehicles or any other functional solar-assisted project utilizing photovoltaic (PV) cells. In its fourth year, the goal of the project is to have a group of students use photovoltaic cells to produce a radio-controlled, small-scale, solar-powered project using teamwork, problem solving, and the integration of science, technology, math, language arts, and vocational and environmental education. A project notebook documenting the planning and building process, a technical report, school and community involvement, educational outreach activities, financial records, and an evaluation were an integral part of the requirements. Six intermediate and 16 high schools participated in the solar mini-vehicle Performance Meet held April 6-7, 1995 in Honolulu. At the meet, each team's documentation and vehicles were evaluated. The vehicles performed in a variety of events to display their efficiency, power and maneuverability, including wind tunnel, dynamometer, road, speed, ramp, and trailer pull tests. Nine high schools participated in the PV Design Project, designing and demonstrating projects such as a PV-powered boat, water desalinization, hydrolysis, thermoelectric air-conditioning, smart window, and rotisserie grill.

Contact: Dean Masai, (808) 587-3804

Artwork Contest on Energy: The Energy Division of the Hawaii State Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) conducted a statewide artwork contest on energy for Hawaii students in all grade levels. Its purpose was to make students and the public more aware of the state's high dependence on imported oil, and how the wise use of energy and care for the environment go hand-in-hand. "This contest gave these students an opportunity to exercise their critical thinking skills by allowing them to explore possible solutions for Hawaii's energy situation and its fragile environment," said Seiji F. Naya, DBEDT Director. Thirteen works of art were selected from hundreds of entries to be showcased in DBEDT's 1996 Hawaii Energy Tide Calendar. The students whose works were selected were presented with awards in a ceremony in the governor's office, followed by a reception, on May 12, 1995. This project was co-sponsored by the Bank of Hawaii, Aloha Airlines, and Town & Country Surf Designs.

Contact: Steven Kam, (808) 587-3802

Great Hawaiian Energy Challenge: The Energy Division co-sponsored with McDonald's Restaurants of Hawaii a statewide program for all fourth grade students to learn about energy conservation in the home and how to read an electric bill. Fourth grade teachers were sent a packet containing energy information and worksheets to help students learn to read a monthly electric bill so they could gauge energy conservation practices they initiated at home. Students who successfully completed the activities were rewarded with a certificate for an order of french fries from McDonald's Restaurants of Hawaii.

Contact: Dean Masai, (808) 587-3804

Fun With The Sun Course for Educators: A one-credit course for certified teachers, accredited by the University of Hawaii (UH), was offered in Hilo from June 19 through 23. The instructor, Andrea Beck of the Hawaii Energy Extension Service, conducted the class in cooperation with the UH-Hilo College of Continuing Education and Community Service. Teachers learned about solar thermal applications as well as solar electricity, ran solar experiments, built solar ovens, visited a photovoltaic installation, participated in games and learning activities suitable for the classroom, and designed lesson plans to use during the school year. The emphasis was on cooperative learning and hands-on activities which integrated natural science, language arts, and other disciplines. The Hawaii Energy Extension Service is a program of the State of Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism's Energy Division.

Contact: Andrea Beck, (808) 933-4558

Solar Water Heating Q's and A's for Consumers: A booklet to help Hawaii residents shop wisely for residential solar water heating systems is now available from the Energy Division of the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. Solar water heaters use the sun's energy to heat water for household use, significantly reducing monthly utility bills. Titled Have Some Energy on the House...Solar, this booklet demystifies purchasing a residential solar water heating system with its consumer-friendly text and illustrations. It helps the reader determine if he or she should buy a solar water heater, and explains: the state's 35% income tax credit for the purchase and installation of a solar water heating system; how solar water heaters help reduce the state's near total dependence on imported petroleum for its energy needs; how to shop for a system; the qualities of a good dealer and installer; contracts, warranties, permits, and licenses; other ways to save energy in the home; and a list of phone numbers of other agencies and organizations that can assist the perspective buyer.

Contact: Steve Kam, (808) 587-3802

Hawaii Energy Projects Gain National Recognition: The state of Hawaii was named 1995 "State of the Year," and one of its high schools was awarded "Rookie Senior High School of the Year," for their energy education programs and activities. The awards were presented during the National Energy Education Development Project's (NEED) Youth Awards Program for Energy Achievement on June 26, 1995, in Washington, DC. Members of the Henry P. Baldwin High School team that won the rookie honor attended the awards program. After attending a six-day NEED conference in Hawaii last August, the Baldwin team conducted seven presentations on energy; participated in the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism's (DBEDT) Mini-Solar Vehicle Demonstration at the First World Conference on Photovoltaic Energy Conversion and the DBEDT Photovoltaic Energy Project; won state-level and district-level awards for energy and environmental projects in the State Science Fair; and organized a Kahului Harbor cleanup, Kanaha Pond cleanup, a recycling project, a reef walk, and a nature walk in Iao Valley. The "State of the Year" honor was given to states with exceptional energy education programs. DBEDT sponsored or co-sponsored the following projects: about 67 energy/environmental student-led workshops, presentations and other activities in schools and communities, reaching more than 1,556 students and community members; Power Trek '94, a six-day Pacific Region energy and environmental leadership training conference for teacher/student teams; a two-week energy/environmental education class for elementary schoolteachers; the Great Hawaiian Energy Challenge, a statewide energy conservation activity for 4th grade students; a Statewide Artwork Contest on Energy; Hawaii Energy Tide Calendar; Photovoltaic Energy Project for intermediate and high school students; Mini-Solar Vehicle Demonstration and display at the First World Conference on Photovoltaic Energy Conversion, Energy Awareness Month exhibition; and Hawaii Earth Day '95 activities. NEED is a nonprofit organization based in Reston, Virginia, that promotes energy education and awareness. Founded in 1980 by a Joint Congressional Resolution, its hands-on, interactive energy education curriculum and leadership development activities are used by DBEDT in its energy technology transfer conferences, workshops and presentations.

Contact: Dean Masai, (808) 587-3804

Iowa
Iowa Renewable Energy Expo & Showcase: The Iowa Renewable Energy Association will be presenting their fourth annual Iowa Renewable Energy Expo and Alternate Fuel Vehicle Showcase featuring displays, demonstrations and workshops on wind, solar and agricultural energy technologies, energy conservation and vehicles. This event will be in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on September 9 & 10, 1995.

Contact: Tom Snyder, (319) 875-8772 Stan Eilers, (319) 365-7314 or Tom Deves at (319) 556-4765

Kentucky
Editor of Conservation Update Rolls Along: Since 1991, Mark Q. Lee has ridden his bicycle to work at the Kentucky Division of Energy and has edited the Conservation Update (among numerous other activities). On June 16, Mark transferred to the Department of Transportation to become the Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator for the Commonwealth of Kentucky. In his new position, he will be advancing the use of human-powered transportation and helping make our roads safer for non-automotive travelers. The editorial staff at KDOE will continue to produce the Conservation Update, and the division will name a new editor once a full-time replacement for Mark has been hired. We wish Mark well in his new endeavor.

Contact: John M. Stapleton, (502) 564-7192

Minnesota
Revised Publication: The Minnesota Department of Public Service has revised its "Windows and Doors" publication intended for home-owners to help them be better-informed energy consumers. This publication is also designed to help homeowners understand the key elements of energy- efficient windows and to advise them about the new energy rating system available through the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). If you are interested in receiving a copy of the "Window and Doors" publication, call the Energy Information Center at 1-800-657-3710.

Contact: Mary Turner, (800) 657-3710

Mississippi
Energy Patrol Program: At the Networking '95 conference in Tampa, Florida, Mississippi Energy Division staff member, Ms. Marietta Devine, presented a session on "Beginning an Energy Patrol." Assisting Ms. Devine was Ms. Vera Powell, a teacher and patrol coordinator at an Energy Patrol pilot project school. The session focused on the Energy Patrol Program as a proven way to increase energy awareness and decrease energy consumption in schools. Energy efficiency awareness transferred to the homes and communities of the students is another positive component of this program. The division's experiences in implementing Energy Patrol Programs in local schools were reviewed, including verified DO's and DON'Ts for program startup and maintenance. Utilizing slides of the program in process, the patrol coordinator at one pilot school narrated activities, student participation, and program results. Other program information included budget planning, total school enrollment exposed to the program, and marketing options for starting Energy Patrol Programs in schools statewide. The Energy Patrol Program staff has produced an Energy Patrol Manual that fully describes the basic steps in beginning an Energy Patrol Program. Included in the manual are examples of program materials that can be used by the Energy Patrol student monitors and school coordinator.

Contact: Marietta Devine, (601) 359-6600

North Carolina
Carolinas, North Carolina State University Making Energy Efficiency Program More Accessible to Busy Plant Engineers: In an effort to continue bringing energy efficiency know-how closer to home, the N.C. Energy Division is undertaking a joint efficiency program that will sponsor a statewide series of workshops aimed at making technical assistance more accessible to busy plant engineers. Together with the South Carolina Energy Office and North Carolina State University (NCSU), the N.C. Energy Division is sponsoring the workshops - - including sites in both states - - with a grant awarded by Rutgers University. The workshops will provide participants with step-by-step procedures on energy conservation and waste minimization; data from over 5,100 energy efficiency assessments conducted by NCSU; and information on the wide variety of services available, such as energy preventive maintenance, utility programs, professional society programs and others. Workshops will be tailored to the specific geographical locations where they are being held. Topics range from an overview of energy and environmental services available to implementing thermal energy storage systems.

Contact: Curt Phillips, (919) 733-1895

Oregon
New Manufactured Homes Will Be Certified Energy-Efficient by the State: A new program beginning this month gives Oregon home buyers a tempting option: an affordable, certified energy-efficient manufactured home they can site nearly anywhere in the state. The Oregon Department of Energy and the Oregon manufactured home industry recently completed a deal that continues production of energy-efficient manufactured homes after utility incentives expire late in July. The new program is consumer-driven and industry-funded, and does not rely on utility rebates for purchasing incentives. Because state- certified energy- efficient manufactured homes will exceed Oregon energy code standards, they can be sited anyplace a single-family home can go in more than 80 percent of the building jurisdictions in the state. The Oregon Department of Energy will use the "Super Good Cents" registered trademark for homes built under the program. The agency will qualify and inspect each manufactured home it certifies in Oregon, and will sub-license manufactured home builders throughout the Northwest who build to the program's high energy efficiency standards. State energy offices in Idaho and Washington will certify manufactured homes built in those states through an agreement with the Oregon Department of Energy.

Contact: Jim Russell, (503) 378-5697

Wisconsin
Introducing Ozone Action Days: Governor Tommy Thompson recently kicked off a summer initiative for southwest Wisconsin and parts of three other states designed to maintain and improve air quality to meet public health standards and reduce summer ozone advisories. Ozone Action Days will be a cooperative effort between state meteorologists, radio and TV news and weather casters, businesses, utilities, government and citizens. Until the end of September, state meteorologists will confer daily with counterparts in Illinois, Indiana and Michigan to prepare regional ozone weather forecasts and declare Ozone Action Days when high levels of ozone are predicted for the next day. Ozone Action Days call for citizens to voluntarily delay refueling vehicles and shopping trips until the evening, postpone mowing lawns to another day, delay the use of recreational boating until the afternoon or evening, commute to work by carpool or mass transit, walk or bike to work, or work at home. More than 150 Southeast Wisconsin businesses already have signed up as Ozone Action Days partners, pledging to make a special effort in their plants and through their employees to control ozone.

Contact: Jolene Anderson, (608) 266-7375

State, Industry Team Up to Win Federal Energy Grant: Acting in partnership with the Wisconsin Energy Bureau in the state Department of Administration, Quad/Graphics in Pewaukee, WI has been awarded a $400,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The grant is from the National Industrial Competitiveness through Energy, Environment and Economics program (NICE3), whose goal is to improve industrial energy efficiency, reduce industry's production costs and lower emissions to the environment. The Energy Bureau handled the application process and worked with the federal agencies to meet all application requirements. The grant will be used by Quad/Tech, the printer's R&D division, to design, test, demonstrate and commercialize a closed-loop ink-jet supply and printer solvent recovery system. This new technology will have significant environmental, economic and energy benefits for Quad/Graphics and other businesses in the publication, product labeling, direct mailing and packaging industries. The ink-jet supply and printer solvent recovery system will reduce the amount of ink and solvent used in the ink-jet printing process by at least 50 percent, will reduce materials costs by $552,000 annually, and will reduce energy costs by $72,900 annually.

Contact: Jolene Anderson, (608) 266-7375

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