Illinois Conservation of Resources and Energy Program
Funded by a 12-month U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Pollution Prevention (P2) grant, the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center (ISTC) at the University of Illinois implemented the Illinois Conservation of Resources and Energy (ICORE) project, targeting small manufacturers – including food manufacturers -- in underserved communities. ISTC assisted 27 businesses, conducting P2 assessments at 18 businesses. ISTC marketed their servicesii, recruited participants and local partners, conducted on-site assessments, and recommended improvements to the facilities. As a result of the technical assessments, the grantee made more than 200 recommendations, 42% of which were implemented by the end of the project period. Recommendations were made to improve electrical and compressed air use, natural gas and water use, management and use of hazardous and non-hazardous waste and materials. In addition to on-site P2 assessments, ISTC conducted pilots at eight manufacturers to demonstrate the use and benefits of LED lighting demonstrations which result in 50% savings and significant environmental benefits over traditional high intensity discharge lighting. Five of the companies adopted the LED technology by the end of the project period for a savings of $46,262 annually.