On February 19, 2009, ACEEE's Industry Program hosted its first Industrial Program Managers' Network Webinar, officially launching the Network and opening a new chapter of the Industry Program. The Managers' Network is an inclusive forum in which managers and administrators from industrial energy efficiency programs across the U.S. and Canada can share best practices, discuss the impact of federal and state policies on their programs, and learn about current unmet needs within the industrial sector. It is funded through a variety of sources, including foundations, utilities, and state-level energy programs.

The kickoff Webinar focused on the current economic crisis, and the impact of it and new federal legislation on the ability of industrial firms to make energy-efficient investments. In addition to hosting informational Webinars that focus on specific topic areas and leverage external experts, the Managers' Network will offer an online

Network participants attending ACEEE's 2009 Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Industry will also attend the collocated Managers' Network annual meeting, which will be held every year in conjunction with an industrial energy efficiency event. Three additional Webinars will be held in 2009, and will focus on topics identified by Managers' Network participants as timely and necessary. For additional information about the Network, or to learn about joining, contact Anna Chittum at 202-507-4037 or achittum@aceee.org.