May 20, 2003

Mr. Dave Leishman

Applied Proactive Technologies, Inc.

1242 Main Street

Springfield, MA 01103

Dear Dave:

I just read reviewed the Legislative Alert that could potentially eliminate all funding in the state of Connecticut for conservation programs. Unfortunately I will be unable to attend the public hearing on April 3 to express my concerns about this bill. Please share Lowe’s concerns at the public hearing.

The Connecticut ENERGY STAR® program compliments Lowe’s national ENERGY STAR program in that it significantly increases sales associate and consumer awareness of ENERGY STAR. The Connecticut Conservation Fund provides Lowe’s associates the tools to educate consumers on the advantages and benefits of purchasing energy efficient products. The efforts from the funds have also significantly increased consumer awareness of energy efficient products.

Consumer purchasing behavior is being affected by the efforts of the Connecticut Conservation Fund. Connecticut is one of only a few of the 50 states that have a program in place that shows results. Research has shown that awareness of the ENERGY STAR is much higher in areas of the country in which regional support assists Lowe’s and other retailers with the ENERGY STAR program. Lowe’s can confirm this increase in awareness with actual, measurable results…those regions, including Connecticut, have a higher sales rate of ENERGY STAR product than any other market in the country. This increased flow of ENERGY STAR product into the market place means a reduction in kilowatt-hours of energy for that region.

Lowe’s has increased inventory dollars in Connecticut stores to support the increased sales as a result of the program. It would certainly negatively impact Lowe’s business if the Fund were suddenly eliminated. Several new and exciting programs are being developed at this time between Lowe’s and the Connecticut ENERGY STAR partners. It would be an extreme disappointment to learn that we will be unable to execute these programs due to the elimination of funding.

Please present this letter at the public hearing April 3 on behalf of Lowe’s. I’ve enjoyed our partnership with the Connecticut ENERGY STAR partners, and hope to continue our partnership.

Sincerely,

Shana Cockerham

Environmental Specialist