Sept. 4, 2012—The Automotive Service Association (ASA) of Arizona will receive a grant under the Green Garage Challenge program, according to an announcement.

The grant will fund annual dues for 50 new members who join the Energy Star Small Business Network. The challenge is calling for an improvement in energy efficiency of at least 10 percent for more than one million automotive service and repair businesses across the country, according to a news release_notes.

The EPA says if energy efficiency of commercial and industrial buildings in the U.S. improved 10 percent, the country would significantly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and save about $20 billion in utility bills each year.

"Many of us are taking steps to improve energy efficiency at home but may not realize that there are opportunities to save where we work, play, and learn as well," said Luz Rubio, executive director of the ASA of Arizona. "By making energy-efficient choices, we can reduce our industry’s carbon footprint and save money while promoting good stewardship for the environment."

The ASA of Arizona will receive $5,000 in the first year of funding to attract new members for the Energy Star Small Business Network. Environmental engineering firm GRC-Pirk, which has helped hundreds of shops take the Green Garage Challenge, administers the funds, according to a news release.