Through a partnership with the National Governors Association (NGA), Wal-Mart will perform energy audits in the capitols of 20 U.S. states and commonwealths to identify ways in which they can reduce energy consumption.

The participating states and commonwealths were announced this week. The "Greening State Capitols" program, announced earlier this year, will target Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Iowa, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virgina and West Virginia.

"The cleanest and cheapest energy is the energy we do not use," said Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, NGA chair. "This partnership is a clear example of how governors across the country are taking tangible steps to improve energy efficiency. Enhancing the energy efficiency of state capitol complexes will set an example we hope will spread across our states while also ensuring that taxpayer resources are being used as wisely as possible."

For the audits, energy and engineering experts identified by Wal-Mart will target lighting, heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems, refrigeration equipment and buildings in capitol complexes.

The NGA Center for Best Practices, which selected the participants, will track results. Technologies that have worked successfully for the world’s largest retailer will guide energy efficiency recommendations, which will be delivered to each state governor.