By Tony McVeigh
FRANKFORT, Ky. -- – As Kentucky prepares to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Earth Day on Thursday, Gov. Steve Beshear and First Lady Jane Beshear are touting energy conservation efforts at the State Capitol.
"We announced our intent to reduce the energy consumption at the Governor's Mansion by 15% by the end of 2010, and 30% by the end of 2014. I'm pleased to say that with the full implementation of the Energy Savings Performance Contract, we will achieve that first energy savings benchmark," said Mrs. Beshear.
Lighting upgrades, water conservation measures, replacement of steam traps, and other upgrades are expected to reduce energy consumption by 22%, saving taxpayers $251,000 a year.
The state entered into a $2.6 million deal with Energy Systems Group to carry out the improvements. Officials say utility savings will cover the cost of the contract.