Senator Frederick E. Berry (D-Peabody) announced today that he is co-sponsoring legislation to study methods to reduce the state government's annual energy consumption. The bill would establish a commission, which would develop a plan to incorporate energy efficiency methods and renewable sources of energy into the government's energy portfolio. The goal of the commission will be to examine the state's energy use and devise a plan to reduce the use by at least ten percent.

"In the wake of September 11th, it is more important than ever to conserve energy and reduce our dependence on foreign energy sources, " said Senator Berry. "By conserving energy within the state government, we are also setting an example for municipalities and citizens to follow."

The commission will consist of 13 members, seven appointed by the governor, three chosen by the Senate President, and three chosen by the Speaker of the House. It will include the president of the University of Massachusetts, the commissioner of the Department of Energy Resources, and the Senate and House Co-chairs of the Joint Committee on Energy. The commission will examine the energy use of the state government for the past three fiscal years and report its findings and recommendations to the House and Senate Clerks. As part of their review, the commission will hold four public hearings.

The legislation was filed yesterday with the Clerk of the Senate.