State Energy Program
The State Energy Program (SEP) is the only federally funded,
state-based program administered by the U.S. Department of Energy that
provides resources directly to the States for allocation by them.
The program, funded at $36 million in FY 2006, is cost-shared by
States. As a result of SEP, states spend and invest more than
three-and-a-half times as much money on energy initiatives.
With SEP funds and the resources leveraged by them, the State and
Territory Energy Offices develop and manage a variety of programs geared
to increase energy efficiency, reduce energy use and costs, develop
alternative energy and renewable energy sources, promote environmentally
conscious economic development, and reduce reliance on oil produced
outside the U.S.
Additionally, State Energy Offices are involved in administering public
benefits funds and emergency preparedness. The State Energy Program's
ultimate goals include helping to assure energy reliability and
strengthening America's competitive position and national energy
security.
$1 in Federal SEP Funding Yields $7.23 in Annual Energy Cost Savings
That's the conclusion of a January 2005 report on SEP's return on
investment. The study, conducted by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory
(ORNL), represents the most in-depth metrics effort to date on benefits
of the State Energy Program.
State Energy Advisory Board (STEAB) Reports
The State Energy Advisory Board (STEAB) is a federally-chartered
advisory committee that develops recommendations for the U.S. Department
of Energy (DOE) and the Congress regarding initiation, design,
implementation, and evaluation of federal energy efficiency and
renewable energy programs.
Inspector General Report Criticizes USDOE
A DOE Inspector General Report, issued in April 2006, criticizes USDOE
oversight but notes that State Energy Offices were acting consistent
with the law and DOE regulations, and were conducting useful energy
activities.
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