Ecobreves – URUGUAY: The Internet as a Tool to Foment Energy Efficiency

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MONTEVIDEO, Nov 25 2006 (IPS) - A web site of Uruguay's Ministry of Industry seeks to promote energy efficiency amongst its customers. The Internet site, www.eficienciaenergetica.gub.uy, on line since late October but to be officially launched in December, helps people calculate their consumption, advises how to control energy usage, and includes games to help children learn about energy efficiency practices.

The aim is “to be a reference point for the country, and encourage exchange amongst the different actors involved — consumers, producers, consultants –, especially through the forums we have set up, and to inform the public about the ministry's Energy Efficiency Project,” manager Rafael Laureiro told Tierramérica.

The project has existed since late 2005 and involved an investment of 21 million dollars from the Global Environment Facility, the ministry itself, the state-owned electrical company UTE, and private parties.