President Barack Obama has ordered the federal government to cut its emissions of greenhouse gases by 40%.
Obama signed the executive order at the White House this morning. It also directs the government to ramp up use of renewable energy sources to 30% of the federal government's consumption.
The White House says U.S. taxpayers could save up to $18 billion in electricity costs by reducing greenhouse gases 40% over the next decade, compared to 2008 levels.
After the signing, Obama toured rooftop solar panel installation at the Energy Department and described the goals as "ambitious" but "achievable."
The White House says a number of major companies that sell to the federal government are announcing voluntary commitments to cut their own emissions. IBM, for example, says it will cut its energy consumption 35% by 2020 and buy at least 20% of its power from renewable sources by that year. (AP)
