Industrial Assessment Centers Program
| Type | Program |
|---|---|
| Sponsor Organization | Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains |
| Top Organization | Department of Energy |
| Creation Legislation | Energy Policy Act of 2005 |
| Website | Website |
| Purpose | To provide small and medium-sized manufacturers with no-cost energy assessments, aiming to improve energy efficiency, reduce waste, and lower operational costs. It also focuses on training the next generation of energy professionals and promoting sustainable manufacturing practices.[1] |
| Program Start | 1976 |
| Initial Funding | |
| Duration | Indefinite |
| Historic | Yes |
Industrial Assessment Centers (IAC) Program is designed to help small to medium-sized manufacturers enhance their energy efficiency, reduce waste, and cut operational costs through free assessments. Additionally, it serves as an educational platform, training students in energy management and engineering, thereby fostering a skilled workforce for sustainable industrial practices.[2]
Goals
- Increase energy efficiency and reduce emissions in manufacturing.[3]
- Educate and train students in energy management and industrial processes.
- Support economic development by enhancing manufacturing competitiveness.
Organization
The IAC Program is managed by the Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC) within the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). It operates through universities across the U.S., where Centers conduct assessments. Funding for the program comes from DOE's budget for industrial energy efficiency.
The leader of the program holds the title/position of **Director of the Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains**.
Partners
- No specific partnerships are listed, but IACs collaborate with numerous universities, industries, and local governments.
History
The IAC Program was established in 1976 in response to the energy crises of the 1970s, initially under the name "Energy Analysis and Diagnostic Centers." Over time, it has expanded from a few universities to a network of centers nationwide. The **Energy Policy Act of 2005** further solidified its role in energy efficiency. Key historical events include the program's expansion to include new areas like cybersecurity and supply chain resilience, adapting to emerging manufacturing challenges.
Funding
While specific initial funding amounts are not detailed, the program receives ongoing support from DOE's annual appropriations, with additional boosts from legislation like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to expand its scope and impact.
Implementation
Implementation involves:
- Universities conducting energy assessments at manufacturing sites.
- Providing recommendations for energy-saving measures, waste reduction, and productivity improvements.
- Training students through practical experience in industrial settings.
The program is intended to continue indefinitely, evolving with the manufacturing sector's needs.
Related
External links
- https://www.energy.gov/eere/amo/industrial-assessment-centers
- wikipedia:Industrial Assessment Centers Program
Social media
- No specific social media accounts for the IAC Program; follow the Department of Energy for updates.
References
- ↑ "Industrial Assessment Centers". https://www.energy.gov/eere/amo/industrial-assessment-centers. Retrieved January 30, 2025.
- ↑ "Industrial Assessment Centers". https://www.energy.gov/eere/amo/industrial-assessment-centers. Retrieved January 30, 2025.
- ↑ "Industrial Assessment Centers". https://www.energy.gov/eere/amo/industrial-assessment-centers. Retrieved January 30, 2025.