Udall Bill Would help Schools Locate Existing Energy Efficiency Programs

The Alliance to Save Energy (ASE) is reporting on its Website that Senator Mark Udall (D-Colo.) recently introduced S. 3364, the Streamlining Energy Efficiency for Schools Act of 2010, which would help schools determine how to reduce energy consumption through existing federal programs and financing options.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) says the 17,450 K-12 school districts in America spend approximately $6 billion per year on energy bills. This is more than they spend on computers and textbooks combined. While there are multiple federal programs aimed at helping schools reduce energy consumption, none helps them locate these programs. Senator Udall’s bill, which ASE endorses, would provide assistance for schools seeking such programs.

Among other things, the bill would establish the DOE as the lead agency in coordinating a cross-departmental effort to initiate, develop, and finance energy efficiency, renewable energy, and energy retrofitting projects for schools.

The DOE says schools may be able to save as much as 25 percent on their electric bills by investing in energy efficiency improvements.

Source