HARTFORD, CT, June 19, 2001: A group of progressive companies gathered today to break ground on a new approach to solving the nation’s energy problems. Manufacturers of energy efficient home appliances joined renewable electricity providers to create a roadmap for a sustainable approach to energy production and use. The resulting venture will utilize two well-known certification brands in their industries - the Energy Star logo designating energy efficiency, and the Green-e logo denoting superiority in renewable electricity.

Hosted by the non-profit Center for Resource Solutions (CRS), the meeting of the companies launched a pilot project for the “Green-e Plus” Program. The Green-e Program administered by CRS sets consumer protection and environmental standards for electricity products, and verifies that Green-e certified products meet these standards. Inspired by the success of the recycling logo, the Green-e logo helps customers easily identify renewable-based electricity products. By setting environmental product standards and requiring companies to disclose information about their products, Green-e helps consumers make responsible choices about the power they purchase.

The objective of the “Green-e Plus” Program is to create linkages between manufacturers of energy-efficient products and green power providers, and to facilitate co-marketing arrangements between the parties. Offerings will include financial incentives for customers to purchase energy efficient appliances, along with similar motivations to subscribe to a renewable electricity provider. Manufacturers and retailers of Energy Star labeled home appliances are eligible to participate in the pilot. Energy Star is a dynamic government/industry partnership run by US Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency.

The groundbreaking meeting was held in Connecticut, where electricity products that meet the Green-e Standard for environmental excellence are available to consumers. Green Mountain and Connecticut Energy Co-op sell two such renewable electricity offerings in the state. Customers in Connecticut can choose one of these more environmentally friendly options for their home or business electricity service.

This marriage of interests will encourage consumers to reduce their energy demand while they green their energy supply and help consumers take a more holistic approach toward new green power markets. Green-e Plus uses market approaches to promote sustainable energy development in the United States. This new approach can be a critical component in efforts aimed at cleaning up the electric utility industry, which contributes 70 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.

Based in San Francisco's Presidio, CRS administers national and international programs that preserve and protect the environment through the design of innovative strategies and increased utilization of appropriate technologies. CRS directs the Green-e Program, a renewable energy certification program for restructured electricity markets. Dr. Jan Hamrin founded CRS and serves as the Executive Director. More information is available at www.resource-solutions.org

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