DEVELOPMENT TO PARTICIPATE IN 2004 HOME AND GARDEN SHOW
Exhibit to focus on renewable energy, energy efficiency and ENERGY STAR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 26, 2004

Columbus, OH -- State Development Director Bruce Johnson today announced that the Ohio Department of Development’s exhibit theme for 2004 Home and Garden Show will be to discover renewable energy, energy efficiency and the ease of using ENERGY STAR to make informed buying decisions when seeking efficient replacements for appliances, heating and cooling equipment, and even lighting.

“The Department is committed to the efficient use of energy in order to preserve and create jobs, encourage economic growth, and protect the environment,” said Johnson. “Helping Ohioans find ways to reduce energy waste results in more discretionary income available to fuel Ohio’s economy.” Johnson added that by increasing awareness of renewable energy technologies already in use in Ohio, manufactured by Ohio companies and installed by certified Ohio contractors, helps move these emerging technologies into the marketplace.

The Home and Garden Show will take place at the Ohio State Fairgrounds in Columbus from February 28 through March 7. The Office of Energy Efficiency, within the ODOD, will staff the public information display sharing their “know-how” on energy efficiency measures, solar and wind energy home systems, and the Double Savings Loan Fund, a linked-deposit program that helps homeowners find financing for efficiency and renewable energy improvements.

A fun, new feature this year will be the magnetic “How Would You Spend Your Energy Savings” wall mural. Show attendees will have a chance to vote with play money on several alternatives to wasting dollars on energy inefficiency. A cruise, a new home, and a trip to an amusement park are among the whimsical what-ifs that could be chosen.

The OEE serves Ohio residents, communities, businesses, and industries with programs that promote energy efficiency and renewable energy. Through its advisory role in energy policy, and the work of its nonprofit and community action agency grantees, OEE makes Ohio a cleaner place to live and work. Recognizing the natural links between energy, economics, and the environment, OEE focuses upon those most sensitive to energy costs and reliability, including low to moderate-income residents, schools, and industry. OEE measures the benefits of its work in energy dollars saved, community wealth created, jobs created, and greenhouse gases and pollutants avoided in its work to protect the quality of life for Ohio’s communities now and in the future.