U.S. Department of State

Since OIG last reported in 1994, the Department has made significant progress in its energy program and in complying with energy-related legislation. In 1994, the Department established a position for an energy policy and conservation officer, and that individual has established a comprehensive energy plan. The Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations (OBO) has improved its oversight and reporting for overseas energy consumption as requested by the Department of Energy. In addition, OBO annually performs comprehensive energy management surveys at overseas embassies and consulates. OBO also has had success in its utility management program, which gathers information through surveying meter rates. These surveys found more than $540,000 in annual savings from facilities that had the wrong utility rates imposed and inaccurate meters. The Department has also met its performance goals related to domestic alternative fuel vehicles.

In addressing the goals set forth in Executive Order 13123, the Department reported that its energy consumption in federal buildings has been reduced by seven percent. The Department has been successful in its use of energy savings performance contracts (ESPCs) both domestically and overseas. However, the Department may wish to retain some of the energy cost-savings in future contracts. Also, to provide the best service to the energy policy and conservation officer, several contracting officers should receive Department of Energy?s specialized training in ESPCs. In addition, the Department has taken action to identify a best practice overseas where individual employees are notified of their residential utility bills and how they compare to others. Finally, the Department has won awards for energy-saving projects that may be useful in other locations.