Dayton Orders State To Conserve Energy, Retrofit

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Gov. Mark Dayton is directing state agencies to conserve energy, use more recycled paper and save on gas.

The Democratic governor signed executive orders Friday requiring state agencies to cut energy use 20 percent within five years and find ways to reduce waste, pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. He says the moves will lead to about 3,000 jobs for construction workers to retrofit and convert state buildings to be more energy-efficient.

The orders contain new goals set by Dayton while consolidating past gubernatorial directives on energy conservation.

Dayton says the orders will help support renewable energy standards Minnesota adopted in recent years.

Dayton also renamed an office charged with implementing the energy goals. Instead of the Office of Energy Security, it will now be called the Division of Energy Resources.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)