MADISON — President George H.W. Bush 30 years ago declared October “Energy Awareness Month,” tasking the country to come together finding ways to manage energy usage and sustain the energy resources. In 2001, the Wisconsin Legislature created the FOCUS ON ENERGY Program, and with oversight by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, partners with Wisconsin utilities, to empower and incentivize homeowners, small/large businesses and farmers, cities and school districts to reduce energy waste.

“When Focus on Energy was established 20 years ago, it was one of the first and most reputable programs of scale in the United States,” Focus on Energy Interim Director Monica Thilges said. “The world of energy efficiency and renewable energy has changed a lot since then, but Focus on Energy continues to set a high bar for program quality, cost-effectiveness and innovation on a national level — and the program brings huge benefits to the residents of Wisconsin.”

In the past 10 years alone, Focus on Energy has delivered $1 billion worth of net economic benefits to Wisconsin. For every $1 invested into Focus on Energy, their programs generate $4.32 in benefits for Wisconsin residents and businesses.

During the month of October, Focus on Energy will highlight how the partnership with 107 Wisconsin utilities has changed the ways they all view energy usage and illustrate how Focus on Energy has created jobs, stimulated the economy and saved money on energy bills.

Every Friday in October, they will premiere videos highlighting how Focus on Energy collaborates with residents and businesses for energy audits and new construction, how their partnerships work with trade allies and how the utilities across the state partner with them to better serve their communities. There are also links to success stories told by your neighbors and local businesses, Energy Efficiency Excellence Award winners, and how to work with Focus on Energy to discover ways to change energy usage and save on utility bills.