Energy use is the largest contributing factor to greenhouse gas emissions; therefore, focus needs to be placed on using energy more efficiently.  Industry consumes more energy than any other sector in the United States, and the Northeast-Midwest region is home to many of the most energy-intensive base industries.  Thus, improving energy efficiency in the industrial sector and the built environment can reap tremendous environmental benefits.

The Northeast-Midwest Institute focuses on energy efficiency as a strong economic, energy, and environmental benefit to our region.  The region has long been home to base manufacturing (chemical, manufacturing, steel, metal casting, etc.). Energy-efficient technologies for the industrial and manufacturing sectors are a means to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing, improve productivity, and increase local labor and tax bases.

Although industry consumes the most energy of any sector within the U.S. economy, policy makers pay little attention to increasing the efficiency of manufacturers. In response, the Institute has advanced integrated approaches to manufacturing modernization through working with industries, inventors, and vendors on clean, innovative technologies.  Because the region has few energy resources, the Northeast-Midwest Institute and Coalitions have long advanced technologies and practices that enable the region's residences and businesses to use energy efficiently.