Energy Efficiency Investments Remain Strong Despite Global Recession

MILWAUKEE, June 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite a global recession, investment levels in energy efficiency have remained strong according to the Energy Efficiency Indicator (EEI) released today by Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI), the global leader in delivering products, services and solutions that increase energy efficiency in buildings.

The survey of more than 2,800 executives and managers responsible for making investments and managing energy in commercial buildings worldwide found that 56 percent of respondents say they have invested the same or more in energy efficiency over the last 12 months.  A regional comparison indicates that respondents have invested the same or more in energy efficiency in China (60 percent), followed by the United States (59 percent), Europe (55 percent) and India (45 percent).

"These survey results indicate the growing importance on having energy efficient buildings that are cost effective and sustainable," said Dave Myers, president, Building Efficiency, Johnson Controls. "Our business continues to work collaboratively with our customers to help them to address their requirements and achieve measurable and desirable outcomes."

Across all regions surveyed, energy management is considered an important priority among commercial decision-makers (92 percent). Notably, respondents from India (85 percent) and China (80 percent) were more likely to consider energy management very or extremely important as compared to those in Europe (55 percent) and North America (53 percent).

"Despite the recession, decision-makers have put efficiency high on their agendas for 2010, especially those in India and China," said Clay Nesler, vice president, Global Energy and Sustainability, Johnson Controls. "It's encouraging to see that the financial returns and environmental benefits of energy efficiency investments are recognized in all regions around the world."

The EEI tracks energy management priorities, practices and investment plans among decision-makers responsible for managing commercial buildings and their energy use. Johnson Controls has conducted the EEI survey in North America for the last four years. This year marks the first time a global survey has been conducted across Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Poland, Spain, United Kingdom and the United States.

While motivations differ from region to region, cost savings is consistently the most important factor driving investments with 97 percent of respondents identifying it as significant. "It comes as no surprise that global business leaders are looking for responsible ways to cut energy costs. On average, the survey found that decision-makers expect a nine percent energy price increase over the next year," said Nesler.  88 percent of respondents believe energy prices will rise in China, compared with 79 percent in India, 68 percent in Europe, and 64 percent in North America.

After cost savings, lowering greenhouse gas emissions (74 percent) is the second most important motivator for energy efficiency in all regions except North America, where boosting public image (63 percent) and taking advantage of government/utility incentives (62 percent) rank higher in importance.

"In contrast to other regions, existing legislation was one of the top three factors in Europe. We believe it is indicative of the region's leadership in energy and climate legislation compared to other parts of the world where the prospect for binding legislation remains uncertain," said Nesler.

Globally, 63 percent of respondents plan to make capital investments in energy efficiency and 70 percent plan operating budget expenditures in efficiency programs over the next 12 months. Eighty-five percent plan to make efficiency a priority in their new construction and retrofit projects.

Global EEI survey results will be discussed today during a webcast that begins at 11 a.m. EDT. To register for the EEI webcast available in English, visit:

http://www.videonewswire.com/event.asp?id=69216

German:

http://www.videonewswire.com/event.asp?id=69403

A total of 2,882 decision-makers were surveyed worldwide during March and April of 2010, including CEOs, CFOs, real estate leaders and facility managers from a range of organizations including small businesses, global corporations and the public sector. The survey is managed by the Johnson Controls Institute for Building Efficiency, a new initiative of Johnson Controls, providing information and analysis of technologies, policies, and practices for efficient, high performance buildings and smart energy systems around the world.  For more information, visit www.johnsoncontrols.com/InstituteBE.

About Johnson Controls

Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI) is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in over 150 countries. Our 130,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com.

About Johnson Controls Building Efficiency

Johnson Controls Building Efficiency is a leading provider of equipment, controls and services for heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, refrigeration and security systems for buildings. Operating from 500 branch offices in 150 countries, we deliver products, services and solutions that increase energy efficiency and lower operating costs for over one million customers. We are involved in more than 500 renewable energy projects including solar, wind and geothermal technologies. Our solutions have reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 13.6 million metric tons and generated savings of $7.5 billion since 2000. Many of the world's largest companies rely on us to manage 1.5 billion square feet of their commercial real estate.

SOURCE Johnson Controls