If you're like most business operators, you know a lot more about running your business than the details of programmable thermostats and lighting systems. You do know that you want to keep your utility bills low and whatever you save on energy- - lights, heat, air conditioning, refrigeration, water use, and electricity to power office equipment--boosts your bottom line.

The Business Environmental Program, the Nevada State Office of Energy, and Department of Energy Rebuild America are pleased to host the following free seminars designed to improve customer comfort and effective merchandising through energy efficiency.

? Reno: Aug. 11 from 7:30 to 10 a.m. at the Sierra Pacific Power Company Auditorium, 6100 Neil Road
? Henderson: Aug. 12 from 7:30 to 10 a.m. at the Henderson Convention Center, 200 Water Street

Small businesses consume 48 percent of all electricity and 39 percent of all natural gas used for commercial and industrial purposes in the United States. Overall, small businesses could save billions of dollars a year by becoming more energy efficient. Nearly 75 percent of all small business energy upgrades are related to lighting and are easy to make and cost little or nothing. Programmable thermostats can help your business save money and keep you comfortable by automatically adjusting temperature settings while you are away.

Energy efficiency is not just for businesses that own the space they occupy. Many small business owners pay their own utility bills, while others have it included in rent. Investing in energy efficiency upgrades can reduce your monthly utility bills, or may allow your landlord to reduce your rent. It creates a comfortable work environment for you, your employees, and customers. As an added bonus, customers walking through a comfortable, well-lit store will spend more time shopping and are likely to spend more money.

Free on-site energy consultation will also be available for a limited time to small business/retailers who attend the seminar. The consultation will assist in identifying and understanding energy saving opportunities at your business.

To register for a seminar, call 866-638-7232, or e-mail registration@nsbdcbep.org. For information about other upcoming seminars, visit <a href="http://www.nsbdc.org/calendar">http://www.nsbdc.org/calendar</a>.