State of Idaho makes capstone investment in key energy research facility

Idaho Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter has announced that the state of Idaho will provide an additional $2 million to help complete the Center for Advanced Energy Studies (CAES) research facility being built now in Idaho Falls at the University Place Complex.

The $2 million, drawn from the state’s 1995 Settlement Agreement fund, will help complete laboratories in the building, finish information technology systems and purchase furnishings. The new funding will be in addition to the $17 million already provided for design and construction by the state and federal governments as well as by the private companies managing Idaho National Laboratory http:/www.inl.gov .

The 55,000-square-foot facility, which will house energy research, educational programs and policy forums, will be a showcase for sustainable construction using the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Designs (LEED) Green Building Rating System, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council.

Gov. Otter said the work done at CAES, and the potential it represents, already is paying dividends for Idaho. “This is a sound investment in our future, both in terms of jobs and economic activity and in terms of developing cleaner, more efficient energy.”

"The Department of Energy greatly appreciates the support the state of Idaho has shown for this critical energy research mission," said Dennis Spurgeon, DOE assistant secretary for Nuclear Energy. "We look forward to INL’s researchers working side by side with those from the state’s universities."

“The funds authorized by the governor will further contribute to CAES being ready for business on day one,” CAES Interim Director Harold Blackman said. “Governor Otter has clearly demonstrated the importance he sees in CAES’ potential to address national and international energy issues, while enhancing education and work-force training opportunities in Idaho. We really appreciate the state support in making CAES a reality.”

CAES will address 21st century scientific, technical and policy challenges associated with energy demand growth, national energy security and global climate protection. CAES is a public/private partnership that includes the state of Idaho through its academic research institutions: Boise State University, Idaho State University and the University of Idaho; the federal government through the Department of Energy; and a private entity, Battelle Energy Alliance, which manages INL.

Construction is expected to be completed in August, with occupancy beginning in September 2008