The State Energy Offices, such as my own, have been filling that gap, albeit with diminished resources. At the state level, the types of activities we are planning must also take into consideration these new trends. The type of programs we have successfully implemented, include linking DOE's industrial programs with our state activities and those of our industries. Alumitech is now able to prevent energy losses and resource losses from by-products of the aluminum industry through the utilization of all components in the manufacturing process. This project has reduced the need for new generation capacity by 20 megawatts.
States are also a great source for financing of school and hospital efficiency retrofits.
In Vermont, my office works with the state Superintendents Association to address energy efficiency problems in the public schools. The objective is to attain long-term benefits and develop sound management practices. By working through the Superintendents Association we are able to gain quick and widespread approval for the program and ensure that it is responsive to local needs. In addition to schools and hospitals retrofit programs, State Energy Offices operate a number of other buildings programs. However, the diverse and local nature of the buildings industry, makes this a challenging sector to impact on a national level.