IBM is expected to call on public sector utility companies today to join the IT sector in tackling energy efficiency in data centers and facilities.

The call to action is part of several announcements being made today by IBM as part of Project Big Green, its initiative that has also sparked new data center designs in the past week. IBM also is unveiling on Monday a carbon assessment service and new virtual green data center.

"The initial launch of Project Big Green demonstrated that clients can achieve significant business results from completing energy efficiency projects while addressing urgent operational issues," said Rich Lechner, vice president of enterprise systems at IBM. "Over the past year, we've found that a $1 savings in energy costs drives an additional $6 to $8 in operational savings. More and more, clients are committing to 'green agendas' and are looking for ways document progress toward the commitment they are making."

IBM wants to enlist public utilities to help develop awareness of IT-related energy consumption and create plans to reduce, monitor and verify energy consumption. Con Edison of New York has lent its support of the initiative, and plans to help IBM raise awareness and measure and verify energy reduction through energy efficiency certificates.

IBM’s new carbon strategy assessment will help companies identify opportunities for reducing IT-related carbon emissions in operations beyond data centers, such as retail stores and warehouses. The service includes a three to four week study that examines overall objectives and targets, data  and cost benefit analyses and project recommendations.

Finally, IBM announced a virtual green data center on the IBM Island in Second Life that is staffed 24 hours a day.