Member companies of the American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA) are adept at riding the ups and downs of economic and business cycles. Over the 120 years of the ABMA's existence, they have seen just about everything. That is what makes them so uniquely qualified to help their customers overcome the hurdles the times have placed before them. They realize that the potential for change is markedly different than it was in the past, considering the market and economic drivers that are converging.

2008 finds the boiler industry facing a number of challenges, including:

• Oil prices at record highs.

• The rise in natural-gas prices accelerating.

• Renewed interest in biomass and alternate fuel sources.

• The continued struggle to balance coal and nuclear energy over the long term.

• Ever-tightening environmental regulations related to boiler emissions.

• “Green” sentiment challenging conventional boiler design and operation.

• Steel at record-high costs, with availability challenged around the globe.

• Increased global competition resulting from the devaluation of U.S. currency.

• Commodities at record highs.

• Increased demand for steam from both petroleum- and biofuel-based energy industries.

Amid these challenges, there is great opportunity for the ABMA and its customers. Boiler users, whether commercial, institutional, light industrial, heavy industrial, or utility-based, can benefit from modernization of their existing boiler systems. With more than 60 percent of installed boiler units over 25 years old, the potential financial return and environmental improvement is astronomical.

ABMA member companies are ready to serve their customers with systems that provide long-term benefits:

• High efficiency.

• Low emissions and a reduction in carbon footprint.

• Controls for accountability.

• Overall system enhancement and operating efficiency.

• Fuel flexibility.

• Increased safety and dependability.

The message is clear: Let ABMA member companies help you find solutions to your old, inefficient, high-operating-cost boiler systems. The time has never been better!