LANSING, Mich. — Twenty-one businesses, organizations and individuals from across the state, including Verso Paper Co. in Escanaba, have been selected as finalists for the 2018 Governor’s Energy Excellence Awards.

The awards recognize people and organizations in Michigan that have taken meaningful actions to improve energy efficiency.

“Through our policies and initiatives in Michigan, we are working hard to ensure energy reliability, advance clean energy and help business owners and residents reduce energy waste,” Gov. Rick Snyder said. “Among other things, we’re encouraging utilities to provide incentives and programs that make it easier for others to follow the example of those we’re honoring this year.”

Nominations were made in eight different categories that underline the diversity of Michigan’s most cutting-edge energy-efficiency projects. Award winners, which span from individual residents to the manufacturing industry, will be announced at an event in September.

Verso is a finalist in the Best Projects–Industrial/Manufacturing category, along with ArcelorMittal of Detroit.