News-Record.com

Tuesday's No. 2 editorial.

When it comes to energy savings, cities ought to practice what they preach. If officials prod residents into conserving diminishing resources then they should also demand the same long-term commitment from city hall.

Greensboro has been moving in that direction. From using energy-efficient LED stoplights to driving fewer gas-guzzling vehicles, conservation is a priority for city workers. For example, the coliseum complex’s energy savings contract already has produced positive results.

Now, a more far-reaching initiative is in the works. This fall, the city will begin a $6 million energy performance deal with Arlington, Va.,-based Pepco Energy Services to upgrade or re-equip 63 buildings. Based on the success of similar arrangements elsewhere, the plan should pay substantial dividends.

Pepco claims to have saved federal agencies $46 million in electricity costs at Washington-area buildings over 18 months. And its 12-year contract with the state, signed in 2005, guarantees $12 million in energy cost reductions.

The firm’s audit of Greensboro’s municipal structures will be completed by October. The City Council, no doubt, will hear recommendations for updating heating, air conditioning and lighting and a pitch for using solar energy.

Coincidentally, the county has launched “Guilford Green.” The wider-ranging effort includes both government and community programs.

While the city’s proposal is more focused, both draw attention to wiser energy use as a way to save tax dollars.

For the city, contracting out the job makes more sense than doing it piecemeal in-house. Granted, the contract comes at a hefty price, but at the same time it eliminates funding and construction uncertainties.

It’s a case of having to spend money now to realize future savings. And in the process, energy is conserved.