What's Alabama E3 and How Can You Get It?

While it sounds like a new fuel, it's actually a program to help automotive suppliers improve their economic, energy and environmental performance.

Alabama E3 (Economy, Energy, Environment) will act as a conduit to funnel a variety of sources of money stemming from technical assistance programs offered at the federal, state and local levels. The funds will help companies train employees to use green manufacturing practices to maximize energy efficiency and reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

The initiative is a group effort that combines five federal agencies, several state agencies, the Alabama Power Co., the Alabama Gas Corp., the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association and the Business Council of Alabama.

In addition, the cities of Huntsville, Montgomery and Tuscaloosa have signed on as partners. Alabama E3 will initially focus on 15 automotive suppliers around these cities, with more suppliers to be added in the future. Click here for a list of automotive suppliers in Alabama.

Companies can receive customized assessments of their production processes and get assistance in implementing projects that reduce energy consumption. The U.S. Small Business Administration will also visit each facility and provide information about services, training and assistance available to help purchase new energy efficient systems and equipment.