Enactment and implementation of this bill would help establish the state's leadership and commitment to energy efficiency and renewable energy use, while setting an important example for the rest of Nebraska to follow. A 1997 report by UCS and others called Energy Innovations has shown that building codes are an effective approach for saving money, creating jobs and reducing pollution. We are pleased to see that the bill would allow the installation of renewable energy technologies to help meet the code. For example, many buildings around the country have demonstrated that incorporating technologies to maximize natural daylighting can save money, reduce pollution and increase worker productivity. With considerable input from UCS, the State of Wisconsin recently launched a statewide daylighting program to encourage architects, developers and building engineers to incorporate daylighting into the design and renovation of commercial buildings.
Solar energy can also provide space and water heating and electricity.
Nebraska's exceptional wind and biomass resources can also provide inexpensive power and heat to state owned buildings. Particularly good applications for renewable energy technologies include schools, prisons, and buildings in state parks and other recreational and remote areas. UCS is a national organization of scientists and citizens working together for a more sustainable economy and environment. We have been involved in energy policy research and advocacy for more than 20 years.