LIPA energy-efficiency talks draw 400 users

The Long Island Power Authority held its first "big" energy-efficiency conference for Long Island businesses and other users at the Hilton in Melville yesterday, and the turnout was a surprise, said LIPA chief operating officer Michael Hervey.

Hervey said LIPA was expecting about 200 companies to sign up for the daylong conference. Instead, nearly 400 did.

The still-struggling economy is driving Long Island businesses to seek ways to reduce energy costs, Hervey said, adding LIPA has been pressing to get out the word about more efficient uses of electric power.

"A few years ago, a typical crowd [for such a conference] would be 20 or 30 businesses," Hervey said. Businesses are certainly looking for breaks.

Ron Diamond, owner of Ronjo Magic & Costume in Port Jefferson Station, has already cut the electric bill at his 3,000-square-foot store by installing more efficient light fixtures. But, Diamond said, he came because "I wanted to see what else is out there" in terms of energy-saving devices for his parking lot.

LIPA officials said that while the utility has had other conferences on energy efficiency for businesses, the one Tuesday drew the most attendees. Most of them represented large entities, such as school districts, contractors and fitness facilities.

But bragging rights -- if they can be called that -- for the company at the conference that pays the most for electricity went to McDonald's, the fast-food chain. It pays about $850 million in such costs at its domestic restaurants and $1.8 billion globally, according to Steve DePalo, McDonald's director of energy and yesterday's keynote speaker.

"Does anyone have a bill like that?" DePalo asked. No hands went up.

DePalo said McDonald's is slimming down, purchasing more energy-efficient cooking equipment.