Agenda - 06-12-2007-4kk - Laserfiche WebLink

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Industrial: The Energy Management Program since 1992 has recommended more than $354 million in energy saving improvements to industrial energy consumers, with more than $152 million in implemented savings. Alternative Fuels: The State Energy Office is providing a portion of the start-up funds for North Carolina's first four biodiesel production plants. Biodiesel is a homegrown, renewable fuel made from plant and animal products that burns cleaner than petroleum. By the end of 2007, North Carolina biodiesel producers are on target to make more than 3 million gallons of alternative fuel for North Carolina drivers. When they reach full capacity within the next few years, that are projected to create around 9 million gallons annually. Renewables: The NC GreenPower Program is funded by the State Energy Office to increase the amount of alternative energy generation from renewable resources such as solar, wind, hydro and biomass. This energy is sold by independent producers to electricity companies for resale to consumers. The average equivalent energy produced by the program is 20,234,400 kWh. Policy: The State Energy Office staffs North Carolina's Energy Policy Council, an 18-member board that is charged with advising and making recommendations on energy policy to the Governor and the General Assembly in addition to serving as the central energy policy planning body of the state. The Council prepares the biennial State Energy Plan, with 92 recommendations that are vital in formulating and implementing energy policies and programs in North Carolina. Education: The annual Sustainable Energy Conference hosted by the State Energy Office brings together the state's key stakeholders and decision makers for discussion on North Carolina's top energy issues. More than 600 people attended the 2007 conference, along with 45 exhibitors and 27 sponsoring organizations. The State Energy Office Information and Referral Center provides answers and technical assistance to an average of 2,500 citizens and businesses each year. FUNDING The State Energy Office has been funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and federal funds known as Petroleum Violation Escrow funds, which were collected from major petroleum producers as a settlement for overcharges in the 1970s. The U.S. Department of Energy funding is fluctuating, and the Petroleum Violation Escrow Funds will be exhausted, for the most part, by the end of 2007. The State Energy Office must turn to State appropriations in 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 to continue its programs. FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with approval of the resolution. However, the potential closure of the State Energy Office will likely have profound impacts on energy innovation and costs for the future of all of North Carolina RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board approve the attached resolution requesting support for the State Energy Office and authorize the Chair to sign on behalf of the Board of Commissioners.