The Southwest Energy Efficiency Project (SWEEP) is a public-interest organization promoting greater energy efficiency and clean transportation in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. Traditionally, this was a high-growth region where energy efficiency efforts were lagging compared to some other regions, emphasis was placed on energy production, energy costs were relatively low but rising, and air pollution was a growing concern. Due in large part to the efforts of SWEEP, the region has made great strides in advancing energy efficiency over the past 19 years. SWEEP focused initially on utility energy efficiency policy and programs. Programs on buildings, industries, and transportation efficiency were subsequently added. In 2010, SWEEP initiated a new program to provide assistance to states, counties, and cities. SWEEP collaborates with utilities, state and local governments, environmental groups, national laboratories, businesses, and other energy experts. SWEEP was founded in 2001 by Howard Geller, who previously served as the Executive Director of the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy in Washington, DC. Funding for SWEEP is provided primarily by charitable foundations, the U.S. Department of Energy, and business allies.