Lee County, led by its Facilities Services Division, has saved nearly $16 million and received more than $500,000 in rebates through energy conservation efforts, distinguishing itself as one of the most sustainable local governments in Florida.

Since 2006, the division has taken many innovative steps that led to a 26 percent reduction in energy consumption by 2010, even as square footage nearly doubled to more than 4.8 million in more than 500 structures owned or maintained by the county. Current data shows another 4.1 percent decline in energy consumption since 2010.

Many of the innovative steps taken to decrease energy use have put Lee County’s Facilities team on the cutting edge of building and facility management. At the same time, each improvement is undertaken using sound business practices that weigh the initial cost to Lee County and Southwest Florida residents against long-term savings.

For more info on the division and tips for reducing energy consumption and saving money, visit Lee-County.com/gov/dept/sustainability.