EPA, industry agree on energy cut goal

WASHINGTON, April 21 (UPI) -- A major U.S. manufacturers group said Monday it has agreed to try to reduce energy use in the industrial sector by 10 percent or more.

However, the memorandum of understanding between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the National Association of Manufacturers sets no deadlines for reaching that goal, nor does it set any penalties for failure to do so.

Still, it is the first-ever such agreement between the EPA and the nation's oldest and largest industrial trade association, EPA officials said. The industrial sector uses one-third of the energy consumed each year in the United States and is responsible for nearly that percentage of carbon dioxide emissions.

"Environmental responsibility is everyone's responsibility -- and today I'm pleased NAM is taking this motto to heart," EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson said in a news release.

Association Chief Executive Officer John Engler said the pact will further energy efficiency and innovative "green" technology.

"Energy efficiency is critical to a clean environment and to energy security," Engler said. "Building upon U.S. manufacturers' leadership in this area makes good economic and business sense."

The EPA will support the manufacturers develop and refine energy management programs, share ways to cut energy use and provide training.