Agawam, August 21st, 2018
Ener-G-save, a project funded by the Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation, is entering its second year of community outreach to assist homeowners in Pioneer Valley in taking advantage of generous utility programs for energy efficiency.
Massachusetts is a leader in the nation as far as energy efficiency is concerned; yet there remains a lot to be done. “Since we all pay for the utilities’ energy efficiency programs through a surcharge on our bills, it only makes sense to utilize them to their fullest extent for each and every eligible home,” says Susan Olshuff, who will be managing the outreach efforts in the coming year. Homeowners can call the
ener-G-save hotline right now at 413-279-9141 to line up their free
assessment.
“Last year, we focused on homeowners in 10 towns in Pioneer Valley, kicking off the project by taking thermal images of homes on a large scale. The response from towns, grassroots organizations, faith groups, and businesses was so positive that our combined outreach connected us to 1600 customers, many of whom had never insulated their homes before. With the help of Co-op Power as our customer service arm and our partnering contractors, we were able to get the process rolling for them. If all these homes follow through on the recommended work, using the discounts of 75% to 100% of the cost of insulation the utilities offer, homeowners will save money on their utility bills but will also collectively save more than an estimated 2000 tons of carbon emissions,” Olshuff says.
Just as last year, ener-G-save will focus on trusted relationships to reach as many homeowners as possible and build on successful first year models such as the grassroots project “Button Up Northampton 2.0” and collaborations with houses of worship. Another joint effort is taking shape in Berkshire County, partnering with the Berkshire Environmental Action Team.
In addition to this community outreach, ener-G-save will start a new educational initiative this year.
“The Cooler Community Project, which we are thrilled to be launching, is based on a successful program implemented in Concord, MA, in which a whole school district contributed,” Uli Nagel, project coordinator explains.
Students of all ages research and create exhibits and materials on energy and energy efficiency within their curriculum requirements to be displayed at a district-wide event in the spring. Parents and other visitors to this fair are encouraged to pledge changes – large or small – that each could make towards living ‘energy smarter.’ Civics, English, and art classes contribute letters to the editor and to elected representatives, as well as create posters and murals to enrich and publicize the event.
“Aside from creating measurable energy savings for the participating town, the purpose of this program is to empower young people and give them a taste of the difference they really can make in their community,” Nagel adds.
Ener-G-save is currently speaking with potential partners for this program in the Pioneer Valley and the Berkshires.
“If anyone reading this is interested in learning more or getting involved in either of our programs, we would love to hear from you!” Uli Nagel says. “Contact us at info.energsave@gmail.com.”
For further information re. this release, please contact:
Uli Nagel
100 Columbia St
Lee, MA 01238
413-329-3514