2008 ecomagination Annual Report

ecomagination
is GE
CONTENTS
1 GE’s ecomagination
commitments and results
2 A letter from Jeff Immelt
and Steve Fludder
4 A business strategy that
is delivering results
6 Increase revenues from
ecomagination products
8 Double investment in R&D
10 Reduce greenhouse gas (GHG)
emissions and improve the energy
efficiency of GE’s operations
12 Reduce water use and
improve water reuse
13 Keep the public informed
14 Businesses overview
33 GE at a glance

Ecomagination is a business initiative to help meet

customers’ demand for more energy-efficient products
and to drive reliable growth for GE. Ecomagination
also reflects GE’s commitment to invest in a future
that creates innovative solutions to environmental
challenges and delivers valuable products and services
to customers while generating profitable growth
for the Company. This document is designed to report
on GE’s growing partnerships with customers,
governments, non-governmental organizations, and
universities to execute on our products and services
to help address some of the world’s big challenges.
Our Progress

1 2
In its fourth full year Increase revenues from Double investment
after the launch ecomagination products: in R&D:
of ecomagination in • GE has increased its • In 2008, GE invested more
May 2005, GE has made ecomagination portfolio — than $1.4 billion in cleaner
significant progress from 17 products in 2005 to technologies, up from
more than 80 products today. $750 million in 2005.
on each of our five main
commitments. • 2008 revenues reached
$17 billion, an increase of
21% over the prior year.

3 4 5
Reduce greenhouse gas Reduce water use and Keep the public informed:
(GHG) emissions and improve water reuse: • In addition to this report, GE is
improve the energy • We announced in May 2008 keeping the public informed
efficiency of our commitment to reduce through its ecomagination
our freshwater consumption Web site, dozens of global
GE’s operations:
by a 20% reduction of water conferences, stakeholder events,
• GE is on track to reach its by 2012. During this year, we work with its ecomagination
internal commitment. GHG have established a plan to Advisory Board, and new
emissions from operations identify and assess our sites public-policy engagements,
in 2008 have been reduced for water reduction. including the historic “Blueprint
by about 13% from the 2004 for Climate Action” delivered
baseline. GHG and energy by USCAP.
intensity have been reduced
by 41% and 37%, respectively,
compared to 2004.
To Our Investors, Customers,
and Other Stakeholders,
When we first conceived of ecomagination a little over five
years ago, our vision was to create a program that would
be consistent with GE’s mission to earn the best possible
returns for our shareowners by solving big problems like
improving energy efficiency and reducing environmental
impact. Since 2005, we have invested heavily in harnessing
the power of our technology and industrial capabilities
to reduce our environmental impact while also reducing
our costs by over $100 million dollars. In this report, we’d
like to share some of our recent results and our plans for
the years ahead.
In the current difficult economic environment, we
have seen that ecomagination is even more relevant. As
governments around the world structure their economic
stimulus programs, virtually all of them include a “green”
component designed to support and create jobs that
will develop and advance tomorrow’s competitive skills.
Given our experience with ecomagination, we have
had the opportunity to share our insights into the creation
of “green collar” jobs with these governments. By some
estimates, the total green component of all global
stimulus programs now exceeds $400 billion. We are
encouraged by this prioritization, and we support the idea
that these programs not only address a current need,
but they also lay the groundwork for a stronger, energy-
independent future for all.
Beyond the immediate goals of the stimulus programs,
ecomagination also has provided us with the opportunity
to work with global thought leaders and legislators to
craft longer-term policies designed to accelerate innovation
and spur action. Earlier this year, the United States Climate
Action Partnership (USCAP) delivered our consensus report,
“A Blueprint for Legislative Action,” which provided a
detailed framework for legislation to address climate
change. As a founding member of USCAP, we, along with
our industry and NGO partners, are encouraged that
many of the elements of the blueprint are embodied in
the proposed legislation.
We are excited about the progress that ecomagination
continues to make, and we are especially pleased with the
milestones we reached in 2008. Historically, all successful
cross-Company initiatives at GE have been grounded
in metrics, and ecomagination is no different. When we
launched the program, we committed to reducing our
greenhouse gas emissions intensity on a revenue basis by
30 percent by 2008, and we did. We also increased our

2 ge 2008 ecomagination report

portfolio of ecomagination offerings by one-third, to a
total of 80; grew revenues of ecomagination offerings by
21 percent, to $17 billion; and increased our investment
in the research and development of clean tech solutions
by 25 percent, to $1.4 billion.
Looking ahead, we remain committed to this pace of
growth. Despite the tough economic environment, we
will strive toward a revenue target of $25 billion and an
increase in R&D to $1.5 billion in 2010.
One of our most rewarding achievements is that
ecomagination’s success has not been limited to GE.
A number of our customers are also partnering with us
to amplify the impact. Whether it is our advanced coal
technology that will provide Duke Energy’s Edwardsport
facility lower emissions from abundant coal supplies or
our water treatment technology reducing Elion Chemical’s
industrial discharge into the environmentally sensitive
Yellow River in China, ecomagination has helped companies
improve their operations while managing their overall
environmental impact. We also have expanded the
number of companies we have invested in on a venture
capital basis as we continue to seek innovation inside
as well as outside of our Company.
Around the world, ecomagination is playing a role in
boosting economic recovery, supporting the jobs of
the future, improving the environmental impact of our
customers’ (and our own) operations, furthering energy
independence, and fostering innovation and growth
in profitable environmental solutions. We got an early
start, and we like our momentum.
We hope you enjoy this report, and we welcome your
feedback. Please visit ecomagination.com and let us
know your views.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey R. Immelt
Chairman of the Board
and Chief Executive Officer

Steven M. Fludder
Vice President
ecomagination

ge 2008 ecomagination report 3

 ecomagination

A business strategy
that is delivering results

Ecomagination is a business strategy designed to drive Specific targets have been established for each of three target
innovation and the growth of profitable environmental solutions years: 2008, 2010, and 2012. We have already exceeded our 2008
while engaging stakeholders. We invest in innovation through commitment, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity by 30%.
both our own R&D efforts and outside venture capital investments.
The resulting products enable GE and our customers to
reduce emissions while generating revenue from their sale.
Combining profits and energy savings, we continue to invest
in environmental solutions, perpetuating the cycle.

2008 2010 2012

reduce GHG intensity double R&D to reduce water

30% $1.5 billion 20% absolute

goal attained

strive to grow
reduce GHG
revenues to
$25 billion 1% absolute

4 ge 2008 ecomagination report

ecomagination Advisory Board
For the third consecutive year, GE convened a group of nine GE holds this annual summit involving all Advisory Board members
energy and environment thought leaders serving on our and representatives from many different GE business units.
ecomagination Advisory Board. This team advises the Company’s At this year’s summit, the Advisory Board provided valuable input
ecomagination team on critical environmental and business on commercial, technical, and policy-related opportunities for
issues. The Board is also a venue for thought leaders to hear GE in the key strategic areas of carbon capture, energy efficiency,
about what GE is doing. Current members of the Board include: and global economic recovery projects. Receiving ongoing input
• James Cameron, Climate Change Capital from the Advisory Board is one way GE increases its engagement
with the public and leading environmental experts. This input will
• Eileen Claussen, Pew Center on Global Climate Change
continue to shape the growth of the ecomagination program
• Karen de Segundo, Consultant as GE identifies new opportunities.
(former CEO, Shell International Renewables)
• Vinod Khosla, Khosla Ventures

• Jonathan Lash, World Resources Institute

• Richard Macrory, University College London

• Bill McDonough, William McDonough + Partners

• Ernest Moniz, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

• Dan Reicher, Google Corp.

 Commitment 1

Increase revenues from

ecomagination products

Revenues
In 2008, ecomagination revenues grew from $14 billion in ECOMAGINATION
REVENUE GROWTH 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
2007 to $17 billion, a 21% increase in revenue. Five years into
(In $ billions) 17
this commitment, GE has experienced solid progress that is
shown here. 14
12
10

Highlights of ecomagination
products and services
The process behind ecomagination

To ensure that product introduction is met with the highest developing environmentally advanced products and services, GE
degree of integrity, GE employs a rigorous qualification process will deliver solutions that increase customers’ ability to compete
to effectively certify new ecomagination products. GE’s process and win. GE also created the Ecomagination Product Review
began with establishing a clear standard for ecomagination scorecard that quantifies a product’s environmental impacts and
products based on two criteria. Ecomagination offerings are: benefits relative to other products. To ensure the accuracy of the
scorecard, GE receives third-party quantitative environmental
Products that significantly and measurably improve customers’:
analysis and verification for GE’s product claims.
1. Operating performance or value proposition and
2. Environmental performance GE’s portfolio of ecomagination products and services includes
or services that substantially enable such improvements. more than 80 at the time of the publishing of this year’s report
(see list) and spans the entire range of GE businesses. GE’s
These criteria work in tandem. At the heart of this standard ecomagination products and services are highlighted here.
is GE’s belief that “green is green”— that by investing in and

GE Energy • LMS100 GE Transportation

• Amorphous Transformer • Nuclear: Advanced Boiling Water Reactor • 1033 Locomotive Emission Kits
• Coordinated Volt-VAR Control Technology (ABWR) and Economic Simplified Boiler • China Mainline Evolution™ Locomotive
• DLN 1+ Combustion System Water Reactor (ESBWR) • Evolution™ Hybrid Locomotive
• DLN 2.6+ Combustion System • OpFlex™ Turndown Technology • Evolution™ Series Locomotive
• HEAT ™ Steam Turbine • ORegen Systems for Waste Heat Recovery • Kazakhstan Evolution™ ES44ACi
• H System™ Turbine Combined Cycle System • Powerwave+™ Cleaning Systems
Locomotive
• Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle • PulsePleat™ Filter Elements • Locotrol™ System
• Quadromatic™ Motors • PowerHaul™ Engine
(IGCC) System
• Jenbacher™ Biogas Engine • Solar • Russian-Built Locomotive
• Jenbacher™ Coal Mine Gas Engine • Wind Turbines
Modernization Skids
• Jenbacher™ Combined Heat & Power • Zonal™ Combustion Tuning • SmartBurn™ Technology
• Jenbacher™ Landfill Gas Engine for Coal-Fired Boilers • Trip Optimizer™ System
• Kn3 Optimization Software for Power Plants

6 ge 2008 ecomagination report

GE Consumer & Industrial • ENERGY STAR® qualified Hot and Cold GE Enterprise Solutions
• ecomagination Homebuilder Program Water Dispensers • 750 kVA Uninterruptible Power
• ENERGY STAR® Compact Fluorescent • High Efficiency Halogen Lamps
Supply (UPS)
• High Efficiency Linear Fluorescent Lamps
Lighting (Screw in)
• ENERGY STAR® qualified Clothes Washers & Ballasts
• High Efficiency Motors
(Front & Top Load)
• ENERGY STAR® qualified Dishwashers • High Efficiency Water Heaters
• LED Light Sources (4 products)
GE Energy Financial Services
• ENERGY STAR® qualified Refrigerators
• Greenhouse Gas Services, LLC,
a GE AES Venture

GE Oil & Gas GE Water & Process

• BCL 300 Series Centrifugal Compressor Technologies
GE Healthcare
for Sour Gas Reinjection • ABMet (Advanced Biological Metals
• Digital X-Ray
• DLN-1 IBH for FR5-2 Gas Turbines Removal)
• Advanced Membrane • ecomagination Hospital Program
• Hot Gas Expanders for Power Recovery
• Desalination • Signa™ HDe 1.5T MRI
Systems
• DusTreat™ Control Treatment Programs • Voluson™ E Series Ultrasound
• Integrated Compressor Line (ICL)
• PGT25 Products • E-Cell™ Electrodeionization System
• UltraScan™ Duo Pipeline • EDR (Electro Dialysis Reversal)
Inspection Tool • Entrapped Air Flotation (EAF)
• GenGard Cooling Water Solution GE Aviation
• Homespring™ Central Water Purifier • CFM56 Tech Insertion
• MetClear™ • CFM56-3 Advanced Upgrade
GE Capital • PRO/Titan Reverse Osmosis System • Flight Management System (FMS)
• SAGD Produced Water Evaporator Optimized Descent
• Australia eco MasterCard
• Waste to Value • GE90™-115B Aircraft Engine
• Environmental Performance Services
• ZeeWeed™ Membrane Technology • GEnx™ Aircraft Engine
with Telematics
• Energy Efficient Home Loan Products

ge 2008 ecomagination report 7

 Commitment 2

Double investment in R&D

Today, GE has more than 30,000 technologists located around ECOMAGINATION R&D INVESTMENT 2005 2006 2007 2008
the world in our businesses and four global research centers (In $ billions) 1.4
(located in Niskayuna, New York; Shanghai, China; Munich, 1.1
Germany; and Bangalore, India). They work intensely every day 0.9
to deliver leading-edge technology and products that drive GE’s 0.7
growth and create a better world.

In 2008, GE invested $1.4 billion on cleaner technology research

and development (R&D), drawing closer to our pledge to invest
$1.5 billion on ecomagination R&D by 2010. R&D investment has
reached a total of more than $4 billion since the program’s
inception. GE’s commitment to provide meaningful solutions
through ecomagination remains on track, as shown.

New ideas in wind energy take flight.

As the wind industry looks to the next generation of since expanded the use of composites to the fan case for the
technologies, a key focal point is the blade. Improving the GEnx, Aviation’s newest aircraft engine platform for wide-
performance and economics of wind energy requires a body aircraft. In both engines, reductions in weight have led
longer, more aerodynamic blade. But the challenge of a longer to improved fuel economy and performance over previous-
blade is weight — adding too much additional weight not only generation engines.
places undue stress on the overall turbine structure, it also
Reducing blade weight can allow wind power to be scaled
negates any potential gains in power capacity and efficiency.
in an economical way. Our researchers are applying lighter
However, GE is well equipped for the challenge.
carbon fiber composites inside the blade, which could ultimately
Applying 25 years of aviation research in carbon composites, result in a weight savings of 30%. Researchers are also
GE researchers in Niskayuna, New York, and Munich, exploring new aerodynamic designs to further maximize
Germany, are developing a longer, more advanced wind wind capture.
blade. Carbon composites, which are comprised of carbon
From lighter material alternatives to more sophisticated
fibers and resins, provide a stronger and lighter alternative
designs, GE has given flight to new ways to improve
to current materials.
wind power.
GE Aviation used composites in the fan blade of the GE90,
which was commercialized in the mid 1990s. We have

8 ge 2008 ecomagination report

Advancing battery technology for
tomorrow’s opportunities.
Batteries have been a routine part of everyday life for years. And for the past four years, we have been developing sodium
But the batteries used for larger scale applications — including metal halide battery technology for a hybrid locomotive.
electric vehicles, hybrid locomotives, and the electric grid —
Drawing from our experience with both technologies, we
require tremendous amounts of power and energy. Since our
believe combining these two types of batteries into one system
founder Thomas Edison championed battery-powered cars,
can help achieve an optimal balance of acceleration and
GE has been exploring innovative uses of battery power. That
electric range, while minimizing the size and cost of the energy
drive has never been stronger than it is today.
storage system and maximizing life. Moreover, we think this
From Edison’s time to the present, the economics of automo- type of system could play broadly across the transportation
biles have favored the gasoline-powered combustion engine — sector, from locomotives and heavy-duty mining trucks to
but that dynamic has begun to change. The past few decades buses, SUVs, and passenger car applications.
have seen increases in the cost of fuel and other drivers
Beyond transportation, batteries will also have impact in the
to reduce emissions. At the same time, the power, energy
stationary power sector. For example, they could play a key
storage capacity, and economics of battery technology
role in providing stable, integrated power solutions. In aviation,
have steadily improved. The improvements have come far
airplanes are becoming increasingly reliant on electric power
enough to where the electrification of transportation is now
to support the electronic systems on board.
clearly in view — and batteries will be a key technology driving
this evolution. GE recently convened a symposium of high-profile entrepre-
neurs, government leaders, and battery and energy experts
One concept GE is exploring is a dual battery system, which
to explore the future of battery technology in both the trans-
combines two different battery chemistries in one system.
portation and stationary power sectors. While uncertainties
Where a single-battery system can involve trade-offs between
remain, the consensus among the experts was clear: It is not
power output and energy storage capacity, combining
a matter of if, but when batteries will begin impacting these
lithium-ion batteries with sodium batteries can make up for
two industries in profound ways.
these deficiencies.
Today, interest and investment in new battery technologies
GE’s researchers have had significant exposure to all types of
are at an all-time high. Nearly a century after Edison and
energy storage, including both lithium-ion and sodium batteries.
others first dreamed of battery-powered transportation, GE
We have good insight into lithium-ion battery technology,
is addressing the key challenges around batteries, aiming
in part, through a research partnership with A123 Systems.
to take them from the lab to the marketplace.

ge 2008 ecomagination report 9

 Commitment 3

Reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and

improve the energy efficiency of GE’s operations

To make ecomagination truly “sustainable” from a business based upon current business growth projections. GE also commit-
perspective at its inception, GE set very real, aggressive targets, ted to reducing the intensity of its GHG emissions 30% by 2008 and
one of which is to improve the energy efficiency of Company improving energy efficiency 30% by the end of 2012 (also versus
operations and reduce the Company’s greenhouse gas emissions. 2004 levels). Improving energy efficiency translates into significant
GE’s plan to achieve this is called 1-30-30. energy cost savings for GE — another way ecomagination is
rewarding investors.
The “1” reflects the percentage (versus 2004 levels) by which GE
will reduce its absolute greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions worldwide By making a public commitment and then tracking the results, GE
by 2012. This is a major goal, given that GHG emissions would is leading by example and demonstrating how one company can
otherwise have grown substantially — by approximately 30% — make a difference.

Top: GE’s Greenville, South Carolina, facility uses solar panels for power.
Bottom left: GE’s Hürth site, located just outside of Cologne.
10 ge 2008 ecomagination report Bottom right: GE Canada’s headquarters in Meadowvale, Ontario, was awarded
LEED-EB certification by the U.S. Green Building Council in February 2008.
Operational GHG emissions
In 2008, GE’s GHG emissions were 6.49 million metric tons, GE Energy Financial Services’ Investments
a reduction of 13% from our 2004 baseline. In addition GE also is reporting GHG emissions from investments in power
to the continued implementation of many GHG and energy projects through GE Energy Financial Services.
reduction projects in 2008, some of the emission reductions
are in part attributable to the slowing of the economy. Our GE Energy Financial Services invests in power projects in a number
performance against GE’s GHG Intensity and Energy Efficiency of ways: equity, lease, and debt. We are reporting emissions for
goals, which use revenue as a denominator thus reflecting investments in which GE Energy Financial Services has an equity
economic conditions, showed continued progress, improving interest in the operation of the project based upon the business
by 41% and 37%, respectively, compared to 2004. GE has unit’s percentage of equity ownership.
now achieved the first of its three GHG and energy goals — In 2008, GE Energy Financial Services’ greenhouse gas emissions
to reduce GHG Intensity by 30% by the end of 2008. totaled approximately 9.80 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent
Each year, GE adjusts its 2004 baseline to account for from 24 investments. Seven of these investments, representing
divestments and acquisitions in accordance with the WRI/WBCSD 4.37 million metric tons, are subject to CO2 emissions regulation
greenhouse gas accounting protocol. Although the number in the United States or Europe. By comparison, GE Energy
of large sites in the GE GHG inventory is approximately the same Financial Services held an equity interest in 25 power projects in
as in 2004, our adjusted baseline inventory is now approximately 2007, which emitted 9.71 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent.
46% lower than the initial 2004 inventory. In addition, the renewable energy projects in which GE Energy
Financial Services has purchased equity interests avoided
We continue to recognize the hard work of our employees 5.06 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent in 2008.
through the eCO2 awards and certification program, recognizing
those sites that achieve at least a 5% absolute GHG reduction In 2006, GE Energy Financial Services demonstrated leadership by
independent of changes in production levels. During 2008, becoming one of the first financial services companies to report
we certified 41 sites which collectively achieved an aggregate greenhouse gas emissions associated with power project equity
reduction of 180,000 metric tons of CO2. We also gave special investments. In 2007, the GE unit continued this leadership,
recognition ecomagination awards to ten sites for extraordinary outlining its guidelines on emissions involving these investments:
results. Five of these sites, located in Hungary, implemented • Establish a long-term goal to balance investments in new
programs using GE’s Jenbacher engines in combined heat and coal-fired power plants with renewable energy, clean
power projects at their manufacturing sites. Our outreach efforts technology investing, and greenhouse gas emissions cuts.
continue as well, as we share our approach with suppliers,
• Focus investments in new coal power plants on efficient, super
customers, and partners.
critical technology, and projects with sequestration potential.
• Price CO2 for coal and other fossil fuel plants into deal
approval processes.
• Engage with non-governmental organizations through USCAP
on policy recommendations to ensure that new coal-fired
generating units are designed to take into account the future
cost of carbon.
• Voluntarily report emissions.

• Explore increasing focus on investments in energy conservation

and efficiency.

GE OPERATIONAL GE OPERATIONAL GE OPERATIONAL GE OPERATIONAL

GHG EMISSIONS 2004 2008 GHG INTENSITY 2004 2008 ENERGY INTENSITY 2004 2008 ENERGY USE 2004 2008
(Million metric tons 7.50 (Metric tons per 60.58 (MMBtu per 496.69 (Million MMBtu) 61.50
of CO2 equivalent $ million revenue) $ million revenue) 57.08
6.49
emissions)

35.58 312.75

ge 2008 ecomagination report 11

 Commitment 4

Reduce water use

and improve water reuse

GE water use
In May 2008, we announced our goal to reduce our freshwater In 2008, water use from these sources was 0.2% higher than our
consumption by 20% from a baseline of 2006 to 2012. During 2006 baseline. An increase in non-contact cooling water
the year, we have developed tools for our sites to assess, identify, offset a 10.8% reduction in water use for potable, process, and
and quantify costs and benefits of implementing water reduction sanitary purposes. This increase was due to a project at one
projects. Our first water reduction Kaizen blitz event was conducted of our largest water using sites to better quantify water use. The
at our Global Research Facility in Niskayuna, New York, with project, utilizing GE Sensing Ultrasonic Flow Meters, identified
very favorable water reduction and cost benefits identified. We that water use at the site was substantially higher than originally
plan on using this approach at other targeted locations during estimated and had increased 11% since 2006.
the remainder of 2009 to identify more opportunities.
As a result, we are evaluating significant reduction opportunities
Since 2006, we have collected water consumption data for those at this site and across all of our businesses.
sites across our businesses meeting a criterion of more than
2006 2008
15 million gallons annually of water consumed. Water consumption
Total: 12.29 billion gallons Total: 12.32 billion gallons
data includes water used for potable, process, and sanitary
NCCW: 5.88 billion gallons NCCW: 6.6 billion gallons
purposes as well as non-contact cooling waters (NCCWs) from
freshwater sources. We adjust the data each year to reflect
acquisitions and divestments.

GE technology works to reduce

GE’s water footprint.
GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) and Global Nuclear Fuel
(GNF), a joint venture of GE, Toshiba, and Hitachi,
have been working toward achieving GE’s ecomagination
commitment to reduce our water footprint 20% by
2012. Already, a new energy-efficient wastewater system
at the Wilmington, North Carolina site has reduced water
usage by 25 million gallons annually, avoiding nearly
80 tons per year of CO2 emissions and realizing annual
savings of $160,000 in water and energy costs.

Using GE’s ecomagination ZeeWeed® membrane bioreactor

(MBR) technology, GEH is transforming up to 65,000 gallons
per day of plant wastewater into a sustainable, drought-
proof supply of high quality, non-potable water. This
treated wastewater effluent is reused in the facility’s cooling
towers, an integral component of the campus heating,
ventilating, and cooling (HVAC) system. It also eliminates
the use of groundwater for this purpose.

ZeeWeed Z-MOD™ packaged membrane bioreactor plant.

12 ge 2008 ecomagination report

 Commitment 5

Keep the public informed

GE is continuing ongoing discussions, dialogues, and As part of GE’s overall corporate effort to improve transparency,
communications to engage with the public on our ecomagination the Company issues this annual ecomagination report to track
efforts. This year the Company is launching an updated environmental goals as well as a separate citizenship report to
Web site at www.ecomagination.com where the public can highlight social responsibility initiatives. Throughout the year,
learn more about GE ecomagination, our customers, and our the Company also provides updates on ecomagination through
diverse stakeholders. shareholder and analyst meetings.

Engaging the public through advertising. Working toward GHG-reducing legislation.

To inform the public, GE launched a series of new The United States Climate Action Partnership (USCAP), of
advertisements with a common refrain, “Now.” Included which GE is a founding member, is a group of businesses
in the multi-faceted campaign was a focus on Smart Grid, and leading environmental organizations that have
GE’s vision for a more efficient and sustainable electrical come together to call on the federal government to quickly
energy grid. enact strong national legislation to require significant
reductions of greenhouse gas emissions. In 2009, the group
The campaign featured GE’s first Super Bowl ad, called
created a proposal called a “Blueprint for Legislative Action”
“Scarecrow,” that focused on Smart Grid technology.
which calls for reductions between 14% and 20% of 2005
A modern take on the classic song, “If I Only Had a Brain,”
greenhouse gas levels by 2020 and an 80% reduction by
from the film The Wizard of Oz, the ad imagines what
2050 through an economy-wide cap and trade program.
can happen when old technologies become smarter.

The digital component of the campaign included a new

microsite, www.PlugIntoTheSmartGrid.com, that features
a breakthrough technology known as augmented reality.

ge 2008 ecomagination report 13

 Company-Wide Solutions

Advancing today’s electrical grid

for tomorrow’s needs.
For decades, the electrical grid has served its purpose, delivering power when and where it is needed.
But to meet today’s needs, we must get the most out of the networks we already have — developing
a smarter grid that increases efficiencies and does more with less.

14 ge 2008 ecomagination report

 1
Across GE, we are working on a variety of Smart Grid GE worked with Oklahoma Gas & Electric (OG&E) on
technologies to deliver real-time information within its project Positive Energy® SmartPower. Positive
the grid. This information will increase renewable Energy® SmartPower uses a secure wireless network
energy generation and grid support for plug-in electric for two-way, real-time communication with
vehicles, improve operational productivity, and lower more than 6,000 GE “smart” meters, programmable
associated emissions — all while allowing consumers thermostats, and touch-screen information panels 2
to manage their energy use and save money inside the homes.
without compromising their lifestyle.
Through its SmartMeter™ program, Pacific Gas and
GE has one of the broadest portfolios of Smart Grid Electric Company (PG&E) of California announced
solutions available today, ranging from energy plans to deploy as many as 3.3 million GE smart
distribution and appliances to financing and help meters to utility customers in Northern and Central
utilities. As GE embarks on adding Smart Grid-enabling California. These meters can help customers manage 3
technologies to its ecomagination portfolio, we their energy use and electricity costs, while helping
also continue to work with customers around the the utility manage peak loads.
world to deploy solutions that bring governments,
Some of our best scientific minds are dedicated to
utilities, and consumers toward a more energy-
future advances at our state-of-the-art Smart Grid
efficient tomorrow.
Lab in Niskayuna, New York. Along with developing
4
Mexico’s largest electric utility, Comisión Federal smarter appliances, researchers are investigating the
de Electricidad (CFE), has deployed high-efficiency electrical stability challenges that a high penetration
transformer technology from Prolec-GE that of wind and solar power generation could bring.
is designed to reduce the loss of electricity from They are also exploring better two-way communica-
distribution transformers, helping to meet electricity tion within the grid, allowing a utility to manage
demand more efficiently. CFE’s investment has power more reliably and efficiently while giving
delivered more than five GWh of energy savings from consumers better tools for reducing energy costs. 5
2006 to 2008, equivalent to the annual energy used
by more than 3,000 average Mexican households. Image captions: 1. GE smart meter. 2. Substation switch.
3. OG&E In-Home Energy Display. 4. GE smart appliances.
5. Clean battery.

ge 2008 ecomagination report 15

 Energy

Growing wind power capacity

to meet demand.
Our Energy business maintains a strong focus on wind power, building and deploying
technology in this ever-growing field.

1
2.5xl wind turbine 1.5 MW wind turbine
Europe has historically been a world leader in the In late 2008, GE Energy shipped the 10,000th 1.5 MW
development of renewable energy projects — wind turbine to FPL Energy, the largest U.S. genera-
and GE is helping to meet demand for wind energy tor of wind power, for the Ashtabula Wind Energy
in the region. Following the 2008 launch of the Center in North Dakota. As one of the world’s most
2.5xl wind turbine in Europe, GE Energy has received widely used wind turbines in its class, it is an
more than one gigawatt worth of commitments industry workhorse that has been proven in nearly
for the turbine over the next year and a half. That every wind regime, terrain, and climate worldwide.
investment represents enough wind-generated
In 2008, our global fleet of 1.5-megawatt machines
electricity to meet the needs of more than one
had the capacity to produce more than 53 million
million European households.
megawatt-hours of electricity per year, enough to
2 “We’re very pleased that our 2.5xl technology is power more than 4.5 million U.S. homes. This is
helping Europe expand its wind power capacity,” equivalent to avoiding the emissions of over 32 million
said Victor Abate, Vice President, Renewables for metric tons of CO2 per year from traditional U.S.
GE Energy. “Wind energy is expected to be a major grid sources, or the emissions of over six million
contributor in achieving the European Union’s cars on U.S. roads.
target to have 20% of its energy supply come from
3 renewable sources by 2020, and we are committed Image captions: 1. GE 2.5xl wind turbine. 2. GE 2.5xl wind
turbine installation. 3. GE 1.5 MW wind turbines for
to supporting that effort.” Rokkosha Mura Wind Project, one of Japan’s largest wind
power installations.
To meet the growing demands of Europe’s wind
power industry, GE Energy is making advancements to
its wind turbine manufacturing facility in Salzbergen,
Germany. Along with greater manufacturing capacity,
the Salzbergen expansion will increase GE’s European
training and service resources, creating more than
160 jobs.

16 ge 2008 ecomagination report

ge 2008 ecomagination report 17
 Energy

Jenbacher engines turn waste into value.

Throughout the world, customers are turning to new ways of capturing and utilizing gas to meet
their energy needs through on-site power generation. GE’s Jenbacher gas engines are often a
key ingredient, helping our customers generate power from a variety of fuel sources that can reduce
environmental impact.

18 ge 2008 ecomagination report

 1
In Australia, the Jenbacher gas engine business has made possible by two Jenbacher units, which were
made contributions to several of the country’s installed in a pilot project to demonstrate the
largest coal mine methane projects, including a power engine’s commercial viability for the horticultural
plant commissioned in 2008 operating on Jenbacher industry. It highlights the increased emphasis on
coal mine methane gas engines. The methane-rich combined heat and power (CHP) in Europe as the
gas coming from the mine is being used to generate region increases its focus on energy efficiency. 2
on-site power at Anglo Coal’s Moranbah North
Thousands of miles to the east in China, Jenbacher
mine in the state of Queensland, helping to reduce
gas engines are at work in a far different way, using
the amount of greenhouse gas that can escape
biogas created from chicken manure to generate
into the atmosphere.
needed power and heat at a large chicken farm north
Through the capture and utilization of mine gas, of Beijing. The plant is the first of its type in China,
the Moranbah North project will deliver significant and could pave the way for similar applications 3
environmental benefits, avoiding the emissions of in the future.
about 1.5 million tons of CO2 equivalent per year.
Providing 14,600 MWh of electricity per year, the
Across the Pacific in Mexico, Jenbacher engines project is designed to help reduce suburban elec-
are at the heart of a newly expanded landfill gas-to- tricity shortages. By using the biogas for power
energy project, hailed by President Felipe Calderón generation in place of previously used coal-fired
4
as “a model renewable energy project” for Latin power, the new project is expected to avoid the
America. The 12-MW project converts the Simeprode emissions of about 95,000 tons of CO2 equivalent
landfill’s gas into electricity, which is used to support per year.
the solid waste facility‘s operations as well as
Monterrey‘s light-rail system during the day and Image captions: 1. GE Energy’s coal mine methane power
plant in Australia. 2. Mexico’s President Felipe Calderón at plant
city street lights at night. opening. 3. Monterrey Landfill Gas Project. 4. Netherlands’
5
commercial tomato greenhouse Royal Pride boosts production
In the Netherlands, at a sprawling commercial
with worldwide first 24-cylinder gas engine. 5. First chicken
tomato greenhouse outside of Amsterdam, manure biogas plant powered by Jenbacher gas engines
the world’s first commercial 24-cylinder gas engine in China.
is in operation. The Royal Pride Holland project is

ge 2008 ecomagination report 19

 Energy Financial Services

A GE AES venture reduces greenhouse gases

on behalf of Google.
Carbon credits are often an important tool for companies to offset their emissions and help
meet environmental and regulatory goals. Thanks to a venture formed in 2007 by
GE Energy Financial Services, several projects to generate such credits are under way.

1
Greenhouse Gas Services, LLC of carbon credits over a ten-year timeframe. Google
A venture between GE Energy Financial Services and will use a percentage of the credits to advance its
global power producer AES Corporation, Greenhouse goal of company-wide carbon neutrality.
Gas Services is building a portfolio of projects that In addition to methane destruction projects from
reduce, avoid, or destroy gases that directly contribute landfill gas and agricultural waste, Greenhouse Gas
2 to global warming. Current portfolio projects include Services is also exploring opportunities from precision
those that create carbon credits by capturing and farming and energy efficiency as future sources
destroying methane from landfill gas, coal mines, of emissions reductions.
and agricultural waste.
Image captions: 1. Biogas collection well to expand existing
Greenhouse Gas Services joined with Google in 2008 gas recovery system at Virginia landfill site. 2. Methane flare
to co-develop a greenhouse gas reduction project at Virginia landfill site.
at a landfill in Caldwell County, North Carolina.
Under the arrangement, Greenhouse Gas Services
will capture and destroy methane gas emitted from
the landfill to generate an estimated 110,000 tons

20 ge 2008 ecomagination report

 Oil & Gas

Driving power through

a delicate balance.
Operating a natural gas pipe array requires balance — between power demands
and space limitations, and between productivity and the environment.

1
Integrated Compressor Line compressor in a single sealed casing. Because it lacks
For RWE, a leading electric power and natural gas a combustion engine, uses oil-free active magnetic
utility in Europe, GE’s Integrated Compressor Line bearings, and operates within a completely sealed
(ICL) plays a key part in achieving this balance. case, the unit produces no direct CO2 emissions and
leaks no methane into the atmosphere — balancing
Two ICL units provide a flexible solution for RWE’s productivity and environmental concerns.
combined cycle gas turbine power plant in Lingen,
Germany, allowing natural gas to be temporarily Image captions: 1. GE’s Integrated Compressor Line detail.
buffered. Each unit is operated as a gas booster that 2. GE’s Integrated Compressor Line.
enables more than 250 stops and starts per year.
Thanks to their compact design, the ICLs can meet
these demands within a limited amount of space.
2
Developed over a 20-year span, the ICL is a fully
integrated compression system that incorporates
a high-speed electric motor drive and a centrifugal

ge 2008 ecomagination report 21

 Water

Reusing and recycling water in cities

and businesses.
Water conservation and reuse have grown in importance across both public and private sectors.
Two recent recipients of GE’s ecomagination Leadership Award provide examples of this
critical technology at work.

1
ZeeWeed Membrane technology National Semiconductor has reduced its freshwater
In arid climates like the American Southwest, the usage by 40 million gallons per year — reusing the
ability to reuse water is vital. The City of Tempe, concentrated brine reject water from GE’s reverse
Arizona, recently improved its reuse capabilities osmosis and electrodeionization systems for cooling
dramatically in collaboration with GE Water & Process towers rather than the municipal water supply. This
2 Technologies. Expansion of the city’s water reclama- efficient recycling process also boosts overall water
tion program allows Tempe to reuse an additional recovery to 99% and reduces the plant’s effluent
2.5 billion gallons of water per year for commercial discharge. New variable frequency drives to power
and industrial applications, as well as aquifer storage. the pumps have decreased power consumption by
25%, saving more than 500,000 kWh of electricity
By upgrading to GE’s ecomagination ZeeWeed and lowering carbon emissions by 215 tons per year.
Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technology, Tempe’s
3 Kyrene Water Reclamation Facility was able to boost Advanced membrane technology
its productivity. Upon doubling its water recycling To help improve Beijing’s wastewater treatment
capabilities from 4.5 million to 9 million gallons capabilities, the Qinghe Waste Water Plant adopted
of water each day — with a peak flow of 11.7 million GE’s advanced membrane technology to filter more
gallons — the facility became one of the largest than 80,000 cubic meters of wastewater daily,
MBR plants in North America today. which was ultimately recycled to maintain landscaping
4
during the Olympic Games. GE’s membrane technol-
Reverse Osmosis system
ogy is a highly reliable method for recycling water,
For years, National Semiconductor Ltd. used a GE and with its advantages of non-chemical treatment
BOO (Build Own Operate) advanced water treatment and superior water quality, it has been useful in
system to provide high-quality water for manufac- solving Beijing’s water shortage issues, producing
turing and cooling towers at its facility in Greenock, recycled water.
5 Scotland. But when the company began looking for
ways to further reduce water and power consumption Image captions: 1. Tempe’s Kyrene Water Reclamation Facility
throughout the plant, innovative enhancements by with ZeeWeed MBR technology. 2. Close-up of ZeeWeed
Membrane fibers. 3. Tempe’s Kyrene Water Reclamation Facility.
GE engineers yielded big savings for the electronics
4. Reverse osmosis membrane. 5. National Semiconductor Ltd.
manufacturer. facility in Greenock, Scotland.

22 ge 2008 ecomagination report

ge 2008 ecomagination report 23
 Transportation

A new advance makes train trips

more efficient.
Centuries after its introduction, rail transportation remains a critical means of delivering freight.
An innovative ecomagination product illustrates how GE continues to improve fuel efficiency
and control costs.

24 ge 2008 ecomagination report

 1
Trip Optimizer™ System weather and locomotive performance. During the
GE’s Trip Optimizer™ System automatically controls trip, a sophisticated network of onboard computers
a locomotive’s throttle while minimizing fuel use. and GPS systems updates the profile continuously,
adjusting for changes so the train can reduce fuel.
Canadian Pacific owns a fleet of Olympic Games-
branded Evolution™ Series Locomotives that are Even in a single year of use, the effect of the system
is significant. For each locomotive on which it is 2
traveling across Canada prior to the 2010 Winter
Games in Vancouver, both transporting games-related used, Trip Optimizer can reduce fuel consumption
equipment and moving the Olympic spirit. In 2008, by 32,000 gallons, cut CO2 emissions by over
Canadian Pacific tested the Trip Optimizer on 18 330 metric tons, cut NOx emissions by 3.7 tons,
of these GE Evolution Series locomotives. They and decrease particulate matter emissions by
reported that fuel savings results were impressive 140 pounds per year.
in the pilot territories. 3
Image captions: 1. A Canadian Pacific Evolution running with
Trip Optimizer creates an optimal trip profile that Trip Optimizer. 2. GE Trip Optimizer system. 3. GE Trip Optimizer
on Canadian Pacific locomotive. 4. Canadian Pacific Olympic
can minimize braking by automatically learning
Games-branded Evolution Series Locomotive.
a train’s characteristics. The system calculates the
most efficient way of running by considering such
factors as train length, weight, grade, track conditions,
4

ge 2008 ecomagination report 25

 Healthcare

Healing energy usage at hospitals.

2008 marked the first year that GE Healthcare products have joined the ecomagination portfolio.
These products not only provide outstanding clinical performance, but also significant savings.
They are part of a broader GE effort to help our hospital customers achieve their efficiency
and environmental goals.

1
Signa HDe 1.5T MR Dr. Scholz’s specific application realized an improve-
With healthcare costs on the rise, many organizations ment closer to ¤ 1,000 each month based upon
are looking for ways to save on energy expenses. current local electricity prices and the equipment
For Dr. Verena Scholz, who runs a private imaging that was being replaced. Most importantly, these
center in Braunschweig, Germany, such savings improvements have been made without sacrificing
2 have arrived — thanks to the ecomagination portfolio image quality.
and the Signa HDe 1.5T MR system. The Signa HDe was inspired by customers in Japan
By employing efficient gradient and electronics who desired lower running costs, increased ease of
design as well as innovative water-cooling technology, use, and smaller siting space requirements. However,
the Signa HDe is among the most energy-efficient the system has also met with a broad appeal in
1.5T MR systems available commercially, using Europe, the U.S., and China, where two HDe systems
3 about 41% less energy than previous GE generation scanned nearly 700 athletes in the Beijing Olympic
systems. The amount of electricity saved is estimated Village Hospital during the 2008 Summer Games. An
to be about 70,000 kWh per year, equivalent to outpatient imaging center in the U.S. recently placed
the annual electricity use of about 17 European an order for the 500th HDe system.
Union households.
Image captions: 1. Signa HDe 1.5T MR machine. 2. A spine
While GE has estimated potential savings for the clinical image shows the outstanding image quality of
4 the Signa HDe 1.5T, including broad field-of-view images.
Signa HDe 1.5T MRI versus prior generation GE
3. Patient being prepared for a scan. 4. The easy-to-use
technology at ¤ 500 each month, savings may be Signa operator interface.
greater depending on specific circumstances.

26 ge 2008 ecomagination report

 Company-Wide Solutions

Hospitals inspired by ecomagination.

Given their unique mission and 24/7 operation, hospitals are very heavy consumers of energy
and water. Around the world, hospital executives face increasing financial, regulatory, and
community pressures to decrease the environmental impact of their facilities.

1
GE is responding to this need with a program that GE’s hospital solutions are designed to lower operating
brings together the breadth and depth of GE’s costs and help create a better experience for
ecomagination capabilities and provides our custom- patients and staff. Hospitals in the U.S., Europe,
ers with solutions that include on-site renewable and Asia are already deploying GE ecomagination
power generation, high-efficiency lighting and technology to capture these benefits.
electric distribution equipment, building management 2
systems, and water saving technologies. In addition Image captions: 1. Solar panel installation.
2. GE Jenbacher engines.
to infrastructure products, GE offers a growing family
of clinically state-of-the-art medical equipment —
such as digital X-ray machines — that impact the
environment less.

ge 2008 ecomagination report 27

 Aviation

Fuel efficiency is in the air.

Our Aviation business has led the industry in innovation for years, and 2008 was no exception.
From boosting our customers’ flight capabilities to developing a fuel-saving landing approach,
GE has enabled a number of success stories to take flight.

28 ge 2008 ecomagination report

 1
Flight Management Systems Optimized Descent GE90-115B Jet Engine
An airline’s choice of engines is important to its In taking delivery of its first Boeing 777-200LR —
ultimate performance — but its flight management a passenger plane powered by the GE90-115B jet
system (FMS) can also make a dramatic difference. engine — Delta Air Lines established the flagship
For Boeing 737 operators in Europe, an optimized aircraft for its new global transport offering. The
descent profile using GE’s FMS has helped airlines engine also enables Delta to fly more efficiently 2
achieve lower fuel costs, reduced emissions, and and quietly than other long-range widebodies in
less noise. its fleet. The GE90-115B meets next-generation
emissions standards, reduces fuel consumption, and
The FMS enables pilots to determine, while
meets some of the world’s most stringent airport
maintaining a highly efficient cruise altitude, the
noise requirements.
exact point where the throttle can be reduced
to flight idle while allowing the aircraft to arrive Its lower overall emissions are due in part to an 3
precisely at the required runway approach point improved combustor as compared to previous-
without the need for throttle increases. This generation technology. The combustor meets all
optimization procedure, referred to as a continuous 2008 international emissions standards with margin,
descent approach, lowers fuel burn. including no more than 40% of allowable hydrocar-
bons. The engine is also popular with customers
The groundbreaking effort was initiated at SAS
worldwide — nearly 1,000 have been sold, logging 4
Scandinavian Airlines, where the approach saved
more than two million flight hours since entering
hundreds of pounds of fuel and reduced emissions
service in 2004.
throughout 2008. SAS estimates that from a potential
36,000 optimized descents yearly into Stockholm Image captions: 1. SAS Boeing 737 powered by CFM56
alone, annual benefits could reach $6 million in engines with GE FMS. 2. Delivery of Delta’s first GE90-powered
fuel savings with an additional $4 million in cost Boeing 777 transport. 3. Powerful, efficient GE90-115B
ecomagination engine on wing. 4. GE90-115B jet engine 5
avoidance due to increased efficiency.
during assembly at Durham, North Carolina. 5. GE90-115B
during ground testing near Peebles, Ohio.

ge 2008 ecomagination report 29

 Consumer & Industrial

Advanced lighting technology with

a familiar profile.
Light bulbs remain an important part of GE’s heritage, dating back to our founder Thomas Edison.
But today, a century after the invention of the first commercially viable light bulb, we continue
to advance the technology.

1
GE Energy Smart® CFL long-life performance of a GE Energy Smart® Spiral®
®
New GE Energy Smart compact fluorescent light CFL, but with the appearance, size, and fit of
(CFL) bulbs use miniaturized electronics developed a traditional incandescent bulb. The new bulbs’
by GE Consumer & Industrial engineers and scientists. 8,000-hour-rated-life is guaranteed for five years,
Covered by more than a dozen U.S. patent applica- based on four hours of daily use.
tions, the products fit these electronic components
Image captions: 1. The new GE Energy Smart® incandescent-
within the neck of the bulb, resulting in a profile shaped CFL bulb. 2. GE Energy Smart® Spiral® CFL bulbs.
that is practically identical to standard incandescent
light bulbs.

The new 9-, 15-, and 20-watt incandescent-shaped

covered GE Energy Smart® CFL delivers nearly the
2 same light output, respectively, as 40-, 60-, and
75-watt traditional bulbs. It‘s a unique design for
consumers who want the energy savings and

30 ge 2008 ecomagination report

 NBC Universal

Using the power of communication

to advance environmental practices.
NBC Universal and its portfolio of media and entertainment brands is committed to educating
and activating our audiences on taking care of the environment and pursuing more
energy-efficient practices within our own facilities and operations.

1
NBC Universal is capitalizing on the reach of more Nightly News, incorporated more environmentally
than 40 on-air and digital brands to reach key sensitive operations, such as more efficient lighting
audiences. Our “Green is Universal” initiative provided and energy systems, set construction, recycling, and
a combined total of more than 200 hours of repurposing efforts.
green-themed content during last year’s November
NBC Universal’s Focus Features became one of the
“Green Week” and April “Earth Week” programming
first studios to implement comprehensive sustainable
events, informing audiences about the state of the
practices on a major motion picture production.
environment and providing tips for living a more
The 2009 film Away We Go redirected nearly 50%
environmentally conscious lifestyle.
of its waste away from landfills toward recycling
Across our worldwide operations and employee base, and composting.
NBC Universal is changing the way we do business
to reduce our own impact on the environment. Image captions: 1. Green is Universal battery recycle station 2
in a NBC Universal building. 2. Biodiesel being used on the
Our sustainability efforts spanned both television set of Away We Go. Background image: John Krasinski and Maya
Rudolph on the set of Away We Go. Photo by François Duhamel.
and film physical production. Several television
productions, including Saturday Night Live and

ge 2008 ecomagination report 31

 Partnerships

Investing for a better tomorrow.

Our GE Energy Financial Services Venture Capital group invests in early and later growth
stage companies that have unique proprietary technologies in clean technology.
The ability to leverage GE’s combined financial, technical, and commercial expertise
to assist our portfolio makes GE a compelling venture capital partner.

1
A123Systems Southwest Windpower
As GE looks to accelerate the expansion of U.S. lithium Harnessing the power of the wind as a form of
ion battery manufacturing and smart grid capabili- renewable energy is not new, but putting highly
ties, the Company unveiled a new investment in efficient small wind turbines in backyards, on light
A123Systems. The invested capital will help create poles, or in remote islands to reduce diesel fuel
2 new jobs by expanding A123’s current facilities; consumption is an emerging market. GE has invested
build new factories in Michigan; and support A123’s in Southwest Windpower, the world’s largest
efforts to develop applications for the smart grid, manufacturer of small wind turbines.
such as utility-scale energy storage.
Much of the company’s growth will center on the
As emissions standards and fuel availability become market expansion and continued enhancement of
more serious issues facing the automotive industry, Skystream, a 2.4-kW wind generator that produces
manufacturers have turned to new advancements in electricity that can be cheaper than retail electricity.
the electrification of vehicles. Among the companies Skystream’s unique plug-and-play design allows the
using A123 batteries, battery systems, and technology user to connect directly to the electric grid.
are customers spanning across the transportation, For residential applications, Skystream can provide
grid energy storage, and portable power industries. anywhere from 40% to 90% of the home’s electricity,
depending on consumption and wind availability.
GE Energy Financial Services and GE Capital’s Equity
3 Southwest Windpower is also expanding into com-
unit provided $15 million in funding as part of
mercial applications, such as within parking lots and
GE’s seventh investment in A123. GE is now the
highway light poles, and other municipal structures.
company’s largest cash investor, with a cumulative
investment of $70 million and an ownership stake Image captions: 1. The auto industry benefits from electrification
of more than 10%. advancements. 2. A123’s battery technology. 3. Skystream
wind turbine at U.S. Capitol. 4. Skystream at a residence in
4 Beyond providing capital, GE Global Research provided Baldwinsville, New York.
system design expertise and supported A123’s
stationary power product development for electric
grid applications, and helped to design battery system
components for A123’s automotive programs.

32 ge 2008 ecomagination report

GE at a glance
Technology Infrastructure
GE is one of the leading providers of essential technologies GE financial highlights
to developed and emerging countries in healthcare, aviation, 2008 Company Highlights
transportation, and enterprise solutions.
• Earnings were $18.1 billion, the third highest in Company history

• Revenues grew 6% to a Company record of $183 billion

• Global revenues grew 13%

• Infrastructure and Media segments grew operating profit 10%

• Total equipment and services backlog grew to $172 billion,

an increase of 9%
• Services grew 10% with a backlog of $121 billion

• Industrial organic revenues grew 8%

Energy Infrastructure
• Invested $15 billion in the intellectual foundation of the
GE provides a broad range of products and services throughout the
world in energy, oil and gas, and water and process technologies. Company, including products, training, marketing,
and programming
• Filed 2,537 patent applications in 2008, an increase of 8%

• Named 4th most valuable brand in the world by BusinessWeek

CONSOLIDATED REVENUES 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

(In $ billions) 183
172
152
136
124

GE Capital
GE offers an array of financial services and products worldwide
aimed at enabling businesses to grow and at providing credit
and banking services to consumers, retailers, and auto dealers.
EARNINGS FROM
CONTINUING OPERATIONS 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
(In $ billions) 22.5
19.3
17.3 18.1
15.6

NBC Universal
Note: Financial results from continuing operations unless
NBC Universal is one of the world’s leading media and entertain- otherwise noted.
ment companies in the development, production, and marketing
of entertainment, news, and information for a global audience.
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To learn more about GE’s ecomagination strategy and
get updates on progress as it relates to products,
services, and our overall commitment, please visit
www.ecomagination.com.