The Municipal Partnership provides grants of up to $25,000 to Massachusetts municipalities that meet the partnership's goals for implementing energy efficiency outreach in their residential and small business communities and achieve exceptional energy savings by completing energy assessments and the installation of energy upgrades. These incentives are in addition to energy efficiency incentives already available to residents.
The MassSave® program, which is open to homeowners and renters, includes a no-cost energy audit and report that makes it easy to improve a home's energy efficiency. Mass Save will also install energy-saving products such as ENERGY STAR LED light bulbs; advanced power strips; low-flow showerheads; faucet aerators; and programmable thermostats or discounted wireless thermostats, all at no cost to home owners and renters. Program participants may also qualify for additional offers, rebates, and incentives for insulation, energy efficient HVAC and others based on the Home Energy Assessment report and household income levels. Mass Save is a collaborative of Massachusetts' natural gas and electric utilities and energy efficiency service providers including Berkshire Gas, Cape Light Compact, Eversource, Liberty Utilities, National Grid and Unitil. (Source: Mass Save, City of Framingham, PR, 17 Feb., 2021)
Contact: Mass Save, www.masssave.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News MassSave, Eversource, National Grid, Energy Efficiency,
Licensed as an electricity and natural gas provider across North America, EnPowered's software platform simplifies market participation and increases value to end-users. EnPowered combines regulatory expertise, load forecasting, and IoT enabling end-users to seamlessly participate directly in electricity markets, automating enrollment in peak-load shifting, peak shaving, or demand response programs, end-to-end energy awareness and improved energy management for building owners,
according to the company website.
(Source: Telkonet Inc., PR, 15 Feb., 2021) Contact: Telkonet, Bridget Donofrio, Marketing Manager, 414.302.2299
bdonofrio@telkonet.com, www.telkonet.com; EnPowered, Janine Scott
Marketing and Communications Manager
888-280-0790, janine@getenpowered.com, www.GetEnPowered.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Telkonet , Energy Efficiency, Energy Management, Energy Software,
GridRewards is a free app that enables consumers to earn cash rewards and lower utility costs by as much as 20 pct through leveraging Con Edison's smart meter technology. GridRewards promotes sustainability by guiding users on ways to reduce the electric load on the grid and help decarbonize their communities.
GridRewards is interoperable with consumer electronics and smart home devices, is easy to use,and may be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play. (Source: Logical Buildings, NYREJ, 15 Feb., 2021) Contact: Logical Buildings,
Jeffrey Hendler, CEO, (908) 517-3730,
www.logicalbuildings.com; Consumer Technology Association, www.cta.tech
More Low-Carbon Energy News Logical Buildings, Energy Efficiency, Smart Meter, Con Edison,
The funding is available through the Office of Housing's annual HOME program that offers housing choices to a range of home purchasers and renters by creating diverse "quality of place" neighborhoods supported by public facilities and other amenities.
There is no maximum request amount for HOME funds. The Office of Housing also has an additional $80,000 for energy efficiency investments such as tankless water heaters, solar panels or other upgrades.
2021 HOME NOFA program details HERE.
(Source: City of Louisville Office of Housing, PR, 16 Feb., 2021) Contact: City of Louisville Office of Housing, (502) 574-5850, www.louisvilleky.gov/government/housing
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,
Iberdrola is looking to help these industries on their energy transition, searching for ad-hoc solutions for factories to improve the efficiency of the energy used while reducing CO2 emissions in a sustainable and cost-effective manner. The solutions submitted must meet the following needs:
CAPEX and OPEX inputs: Investment Rate of Return (IRR), Net Present Value (NPV) and Payback Periods (PB).
The proposals will be analysed based on criteria of scalability, replicability, ease of implementation and integration of ad-hoc decarbonisation solutions for industrial plants.
The selected project will be developed in collaboration with the technical specialists from the Iberdrola Industrial Heating and Cooling area. Iberdrola will collaboration on the development of a proof-of-concept and may offer the winner the opportunity to scale up the solution by means of commercial agreements. Additionally, PERSEO may consider investing in the participant.
Download Industrial Heat Challenge details HERE. (Source: Iberdrola, Pei, 14 Feb., 2021) Contact: European Innovation Council, ec.europa.eu/programmes/horizon2020/en/h2020-section/european-innovation-council-eic-pilot; Iberdrola, +34 91 784 32 32, comunicacioncorporativa@iberdrola.es, www.iberdrola.es
More Low-Carbon Energy News Iberdrola,
New energy efficient equipment upgrades and installations at the plant will include 4MW of power generation, paralleling switchgear, 800 ton efficient electric chillers, a 600HP firetube pony boiler, a 5-cell cooling tower and a 4,000 ton thermal energy storage system. The plant's electric generators will operate primarily in "peak shaving" mode for increased cost savings and decreased demand on the local utility during peak times of the year.
Construction on the Central Utility Plant began in December of 2020 and is slated for commissioning in May 2021.
(Source: Ameresco, Inc., Website PR, 10 Feb., 2021)
Contact: Ameresco, David J. Anderson, EVP, (508) 661-2264, www.ameresco.com, [www.ameresco.com/energy-efficiency; Wellesley Ccllege, www.wellesley.edu
More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco, Energy Efficiency,
The new formalized partner program offers dedicated resources and training on core building parts such as HVAC controls, valves, sensors, thermostats and switches and the role they play in the health of a building, including ensuring proper ventilation and air quality (HVAC). The Program makes it easy for partners to offer mechanical contractors and facility managers products specifically designed to meet the demand for quality, reliable, affordable and energy efficient products.
Wholesale Building Management Systems (BMS) Distributors that sell Schneider Electric core building energy parts will be automatically enrolled in the program.
(Source: Schneider Electric, PR, Feb, 2021) Contact: Schneider Electric, Vicki True ,
774-613-1158, vicki.true@se.com, www.se.com,
twitter.com/SchneiderElec
More Low-Carbon Energy News Schneider Electric, Energy Efficiency,
Across the top states, more than 60 pct of certifications were office, healthcare, higher education and K-12 projects.
This year, USGBC also released a ranking of states with the most LEED professionals with California taking the top spot. Collectively, the 2020 rankings represent 1,171 certified LEED buildings and spaces, and more than 100,000 green building workers.
"If we are to rebuild an economy that supports our health and our planet, we must lead with changing the way we design and build," said Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO of USGBC. "Last year was a stark reminder that the quality of our buildings impacts the quality of our life. Looking ahead, people want to trust that the spaces they occupy are good for them and their communities, and LEED has always been a tool to support those goals. Now is the time to ensure that every building is LEED certified as that is the only way we are accomplishing our goals of access to healthy, green buildings, homes and spaces."
While offices, education and healthcare projects accounted for a majority of certifications, warehouses, distribution centers, multifamily and retail projects represented almost 20 pct. Also, almost half of all projects were certified Gold, indicating a commitment to a high level of certification.
Top 10 States for LEED Green Building in 2020 are:
Massachusetts, Washington, Illinois, Colorado, New York, Maryland, California, Virginia, Texas and Nevada in that order. (Source: US Green Building Council, PR, Feb., 2021) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News LEED Certification, U.S. Green Building Council , Green Building, Energy Efficiency,
In the study, UC Davis applied three different estimates of energy intensity, which is the amount of energy embedded within water. The first directly assessed the LADWP service territory; the second had an expanded boundary that included LADWP's imported water infrastructure systems; and the third was a broader estimate for the entire regional hydrologic zone. Researchers also analyzed data on the costs and estimated savings of LADWP's water conservation and energy efficiency programs.
LADWP's estimated energy savings secured through water conservation programs -- high-efficiency washing machines, toilets/urinals and irrigation systems, and others -- was cost-competitive with LADWP's energy efficiency programs such as more efficient lighting, HVAC and refrigeration systems.
(Source: UC Davis, PR, India Education Diary Bureau Admin, 7 Jan., 2021)
Contact: UC Davis Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, Prof. Frank Loge, www.cee.engineering.ucdavis.edu;
LADWP, Nancy Sutley, Regulatory Affairs and Chief Sustainability Officer, (800) 342-5397, www.ladwp.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News UC Davis, LADWP, Energy Efficiency,
Under the bill, PACE programs, which are advertised as a no-money-down way for homeowners and businesses to finance energy efficiency upgrades, would include projects related to storms and flooding, septic tank improvements and "health and environment" improvements such as removing mold, lead and asbestos.
Importantly, the bill allows PACE borrowers to cancel within three days and standardizes how the financial terms are disclosed. Also, PACE contractors and loan providers would be required to verify that PACE loans are not greater than 10 pct of the (borrower) homeowner's annual income and that the loan payment amount is not greater than $4,800 per year or that the homeowner is not in bankruptcy proceedings. (Source: Office of Rep. Randy Fine (R-Palm Bay), Tampa Bay Times, 8 Jan., 2021)
Contact: Florida Rep. Randy Fine (R-Palm Bay), www.facebook.com/voterandyfine
More Low-Carbon Energy News Property Assessed Clean Energy .PACE news, Energy Efficiency news,
Through the partnership, IEE will investigate advanced energy-efficient data center infrastructure, including low-power optical interconnects for computer networks and machine learning with reduced carbon footprint. Committed to 100% renewable energy since 2018, Facebook has long believed that the first step is always to use the least amount of energy possible by building and operating the most energy efficient data centers in the industry. Facebook has committed to reaching net zero emissions across its value chain in 2030. (Source: UCSB, PR, Santa Barbara News Press, 7 Jan., 2021)
Rod Alferness, dean of UCSB’s College of Engineering
The upgrades will include triple-paned windows , LED lighting, HVAC systems and others.
The project is expected to cost about $1.5 million, with Dane County and the City of Madison allocating $500,000 in matching funds. (Source: City of Madison, Dane County Wisc., 1 Feb., 2021) Contact: Dane County Wisc., Joe Parisi, www.countyofdane.com
US DOE Building Technologies Proving Ground -- Public Sector Field Validation Funding Opportunity , www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/events/building-technologies-proving-ground-public-sector-field-validation-applicant
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,
In addition, 1,300 completed residential energy-saving improvements have resulted in nearly $39,000 in annual electric cost savings for customers, which is equivalent to the annual electricity needed to power more than 55 homes for a year. (Source: Lakeview Water and Light Company, PR, Bellefontaine Examiner, 3 Feb., 2021)
Contact: Lakeview Water and Light Company, www.efficiencysmart.org/lakeview-ohio
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,
According to the release, the most popular Green Stimulus program is incentives to install heat pumps which have seen a fivefold increase in installations sine the program launch.
Under the program, up to 75 pct of the cost of a residential heat pump is covered by rebates and incentives for low- and moderate-income customers. The Green Stimulus Program also includes incentives and loan programs for weatherization, energy efficiency and other projects. (Source: Burlington Electric, PR, Feb., 2021) Contact: Burlington Electric Department, Chris Burns, Director of Energy Services, (802) 865-7300, www.burlingtonelectric.com; Efficiency Vermont, (888) 921-5990, www.efficiencyvermont.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Burlington Electric, Energy Efficiency,
Gas continues to be the leading – and fastest growing -- source of climate pollution in the Evergreen State with offices, homes and buildings causing 27 pct of the state's climate pollution and are also the single fastest growing source.
The legislation would reduce Seattle's total building emissions by 12 pct by 2050.
Read More
(Source: City of Seattle, Seattle PI, 1 Feb., 2021)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency news,
The room-by-room energy audits and assessments are intended to reveal energy usage and identify improvements in energy efficiency can be made.
Download DIY Energy Audit details HERE.
(Source: Cayman Energy, PR, Cayman Loop, 31 Jan., 2021) Contact: Cayman Energy, (345) 925-9312, energy@gov.ky, www.energy.gov.ky
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,
The funding, totaling $64.6 million, is being invested in programs aimed at lowering the demand for natural gas and to bolster pre-existing insulation upgrades, smart thermostats and other energy efficiency incentive programs residential, commercial and industrial efficiency programs.used for heating and industrial purposes.
The federal funding for the energy efficiency initiative came from the Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund. (Source: Efficiency Manitoba, PR, Winnipeg Free Press, 30 Jan., 2021)
Contact: Efficiency Manitoba, Colleen Kuruluk, CEO, 204-944-8181, www.efficiencymb.ca
More Low-Carbon Energy News Efficiency Manitoba , Energy Efficiency,
Satori provides expertise and service to more than 55,000 industrial, municipal, and residential clients in 25 states and the District of Columbia, Canada, and Mexico. The company's capabilities span the spectrum of Energy Structuring and Market Intelligence Operations, including: energy procurement, market price monitoring, contract administration, review, and negotiation, transaction due diligence, demand-side curtailment program evaluation, energy and invoice auditing, capacity PLC notification, budgeting and forecasting, and utility account and service setup.
Satori also has experience and expertise in energy transition, from sustainable energy and energy resiliency solutions, including community solar aggregation and behind-the-meter installations, to purchase of Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) and carbon offsets, LEED certification, and ENERGY STAR® Certification and energy benchmarking.
Priority Power is the #1 Independent Energy Solutions Provider focused on Energy Infrastructure, Energy Transition Program Management, Market Intelligence Operations, and Energy Structuring. Priority serves over 1,600 clients, totaling $2.4/BN in energy spend across 37 states. Priority is backed by Ara Partners, a private equity firm specializing in decarbonization investments in the industrial and manufacturing, chemicals and materials, energy efficiency and green fuels, and the food and agriculture sectors.
(Source: Priority Power Management, LLC, PR, Feb., 2021)
Contact: Ara Partners, (917) 439-3507, www.arapartners.com;
Priority Power Management, LLC,
John J. Bick,
Managing Principal,
(972) 314-9040,
JBick@PriorityPower.net , www.prioritypower.net; Satori Energy Solutions, 312-850-2300, www.satorienergy.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Management, Energy Efficiency,
The Met-Ed / Penelec Sustainable Energy Fund provide grants, loans, and equity investments to promote development and use of renewable energy and clean energy technologies; energy conservation and efficiency; sustainable energy businesses and projects that improve the environment in the companies' service territories.
Grant applicants must be for projects located in and/or serve residents within the territories of the Met-Ed and Penelec electric companies in Pennsylvania. Funding is prioritized for non-profit entities, however commercial or industrial organizations may qualify. Applications are now open and will be accepted through March 15, with decisions to be made in May 2021. (Source: Met-Ed / Penelec Sustainable Energy Fund, 28 Jan, 2021) Contact: Met-Ed/Penelec Sustainable Energy Fund, 800.732.0999, www.bccf.org/sustainable-energy-fund
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency, Energy Conservation,
Distributed energy storage and energy-efficiency were instrumental in the school reaching its goal. The also school installed more than 3,300 photovoltaic modules with 13.93 MWh of battery storage and is part of a partnership with Johnson Controls and Mauo, a subsidiary of Pacific Current.
The state of Hawaii has committed to achieve 100 pct renewable energy by 2045 and a collective goal for the university system's 10 campuses to be "net-zero" by January 1, 2035. (Source: University of Hawaii Maui College, PR. 25 Jan., 2021) Contact: University of Hawaii Maui College, www.maui.hawaii.edu
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Storage, Solar PV, Energy Efficiency , Renewable Energy,
NRTC is a member-driven, technology-focused cooperative that supports more than 1,500 rural utilities and affiliates in 48 states. NRTC's products and services include integrated smart grid and utility solutions, advanced energy, broadband infrastructure and managed network services, wireless technologies, and others.
Armada Power manufactures and incorporates smart technologies into a secure platform that optimizes individual devices through secure, real-time, two-way communication into a larger, aggregated, controlled, and responsive grid tool. (Source: Armada Power, PR, 25 Jan., 2021) Contact: NRTC, Greg Bartolomei, Pres., Smart Grid Solutions , Chris Martin,
VP of Member & Industry Relations, cmartin@nrtc.coop, www.nrtc.com;
Armada Power, Dave Myers, Marketing Manager, 614-918-7493, dmyers@armadapower.com, www.armadapower.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Armada Power, NRTC, Energy Efficiency, Energy Storage,
The program offers a 75 pct cost-share for staffing at industrial, commercial, and multifamily buildings, like those within the INHS housing portfolio.
Taitem Engineering will provide energy audits and walk-through inspections and make recommendations
to cut energy consumption within INHS's housing portfolio and future developments. Taitem will also develop guidelines for future development and provide staff training on energy efficiency best practices. The goal is to realize a 4 pct saving in electric and natural gas costs.
(Source: INHS, PR, Finger Lakes 1, 27 Jan., 2021)
Contact: Taitem Engineering, 607-277-1118, www.taitem.com; NYSERDA, Doreen Harris, Acting CEO, (518) 862-1090, www.nyserda.ny.gov;
Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Service, 670.277.4500, www.ithacanhs.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News NYSERDA, Energy Efficiency,
In order for buildings constructed today to reach the 2030 or 2050 targets the updated code may include:
The code is intended to regulate the design and construction of buildings for the maximum energy efficiency and conservation as well carbon emissions reduction over the life of each building. Download code summary details HERE
(Source: 2030 Districts, City of Seattle, PR, Jan., 2021) Contact: City of Seattle, 2030 District, Matthew Combe, matthewcombe@2030districts.org, www.2030districts.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News City of Seattle, Energy Efficiency, Energy Consumptio,
Greater Victoria 2030 District is part of a North American movement that gives property managers resources and guidance to retrofit existing buildings with energy efficiency features, as an investment and marketability tool, one that also addresses climate change.
Members commit to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions by 50 pct over 2007 levels by 2030. That means encouraging and helping property owners and managers create bench-marking reports, set efficiency targets, and create long-term plans to improve their building's performance in 10 to 15 years.
A partnership between the Building Owners and Managers Association of B.C., City of Victoria, District of Saanich and UVic, Greater Victoria 2030 District has a wide variety of properties on its list including municipal and provincial office buildings.
(Source: Greater Victoria 2030 District, PR, Website, Saanich News, 23 Jan., 2020) Contact: Greater Victoria 2030 District, Cora Hallsworth, Manager, www.2030districts.org/greater-victoria; 2030 Districts Network, Dave Low, davelow@2030districts.org, www.2030districts.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,
Specifically, new homes are expected to produce 75-80 pct lower carbon emissions compared to current builds. An additional requirement is for new homes to have a reduced carbon footprint of 31 pct by 2021 compared to current levels.
Additionally, all existing homes and home extensions will be subject to new energy efficiency standards focused on energy consumption, such as windows, lighting and HVAC systems. A consultation on higher energy performance targets for non-domestic buildings, was also announced. (Source: UK Housing Minister, edie, 21 Jan., 2021)
Developed with Republic Services and U.S. Gain, the facility has a gross installed capacity of more than 1.1 million Dekatherms (1.099 BTU) per year and the capacity of processing 4,500 standard cubic feet per metre of raw landfill gas while eliminating more than 61,000 tpy of CO2 emissions -- equivalent to removing 103,000 passenger cars from the roads. (Source: Ameresco, PR, US Gain Website News Release, 19 Jan., 2021) Contact: US Gain, Mike Koel, Pres., Stephanie Lowney, Director of Marketing & Innovation, 920.381.2190, slowney@usgain.com, www.usgain.com; Ameresco, David J. Anderson, EVP, (508) 661-2264, www.ameresco.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News RNG, Landfill Gas, Ameresco, US Gain, epublic Services,
The department also launched Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Financial Resources for Farms, a webpage that highlights opportunities that may help keep farms productive, reduce costs, and lessen environmental impacts.
Download Technical Guidance For Utility-Scale Solar Installation and Development HERE.
Access Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Financial Resources for Farms, HERE. (Source: Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, PR, Jan/. 2021) Contact: Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, www.maine.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar, Energy Efficiency,
The annual report also showed that during distance learning from April through June, lower energy usage saved the district more than $123,500 in cost avoidance, in spite of an active construction time in which energy usage is typically high.
According to Minnesota's B3 Energy Benchmarking for public buildings, with data current within the last 180 days, only one other school district of comparable size realized this kind of energy efficiency, earning the district a 4.3 out of 5-star rating. (Source: Prior Lake-Savage Area School District, PR, 15 Ja., 2021) Contact: Prior Lake-Savage Area School District
Jim Dellwo, Director of Operations, Transportation and Health and Safety 952-226-0000, www.priorlake-savage.k12.mn.us
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency, Energy Benchmarking,
McKinstry initially started its energy efficiency study of the county's five buildings late in 2019 and began work in mid-2020. Some of the work was covered under an Arkansas Energy Office Performance Contract.
(Source: McKinstry Texarkana Gazette, 18 Jan., 2021) Contact: McKinstry 972.532.4290,
972.239.8835 Fax, dallasoffice@mckinstry.com, www.mckinstry.com;
Arkansas Energy Office Performance Contract, www.adeq.state.ar.us/energy/incentives/performance.aspx
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,
The filing represents a shift from prior planning models. While the Company will continue to add customers within its existing footprint, this plan considers decreasing natural gas loads and strategies under which VGS can promote such further reductions through efficiency and weatherizations, as well as meeting the needs of customers through expanded energy services.
VGS serves over 54,000 homes, businesses, and institutions in Franklin, Chittenden and Addison counties and plays an important role in Vermont's clean energy future by displacing higher-emitting fuels, offering renewable natural gas service, and delivering award-winning energy efficiency programs. VGS is leading the country in the development of local renewable energy generation and has targeted a 30 pct reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and full elimination by 2050. (Source: Vermont Gas, PR, 18 Jan, 2021) Contact: Vermont Gas, Neale Lunderville, CEO, Beth Parent, Brand Manager, (802) 865-1460 / (802) 578-2776, bparent@vermontgas.com, www.vgsvt.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Vermont Gas, Energy Efficiency, Smart Energy,
A key attribute of FEDS 8.0 is the ability to initiate assessments with a limited detail of characteristics. FEDS fills in unknown details based on the parameters specified with a sophisticated internal inference generator whose results can be reviewed and updated as appropriate.
The highly scalable tool simulates building systems, including building shell, lighting, HVAC, and water heating technologies and calculates loads and energy use to analyze the cost and performance impact of thousands of potential efficiency measures.
Development of FEDS was supported by the U.S. DOE Federal Energy Management Program in coordination with other government agencies.
Download FEDS 8.0 licensing and other details HERE. (Source: PNNL, PR, Jan., 2021) Contact:
PNNL, Bob Dahowski , FEDS development engineer, www.pnnl.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News PNNL, Energy Efficiency Software,
The Filing represents a shift from prior planning models. While the Company will continue to add customers within its existing footprint, this plan considers decreasing natural gas loads and strategies under which VGS can promote such further reductions through efficiency and weatherizations, as well as meeting the needs of customers through expanded energy services.
VGS serves over 54,000 homes, businesses, and institutions in Franklin, Chittenden and Addison counties. The company plays an important role in Vermont's clean energy future by displacing higher-emitting fuels, offering renewable natural gas service, and delivering award-winning energy efficiency programs. VGS is leading the country in the development of local renewable energy generation and has targeted a 30 pct reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and full elimination by 2050. (Source: Vermont Gas, PR, 18 Jan., 2021) Contact: Vermont Gas, Neale Lunderville, CEO, Beth Parent, Brand Manager, (802) 865-1460 / (802) 578-2776, bparent@vermontgas.com, www.vgsvt.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Net-Zero Emissions, Carbon Emissions,
The competition included 30 communities from five states. San Luis Obispo received first place. Third place went to St. Louis Park (Minnesota) followed by Manhattan Beach, West Hollywood, West Hartford (Connecticut), Rockville (Maryland), Dublin (California) and Red Wing (Minnesota) (tied), and Rochester (Minnesota).
The ACEEE examined all participating cities' efforts to make homes and buildings more energy efficient, to scale up the use of renewable energy, and to ensure community involvement in developing equitable clean-energy policies. Goleta was recognized for its commitments 100 pct community-wide renewable energy by 2030 and 50 pct renewable energy at municipal facilities by 2025, as well as its green building policies, LED streetlight acquisition, support for building energy code compliance and commitment to
being a green and sustainable community. (Source: City of Goleta, PR, ACEEE, 17 Jan., 2021) Contact: City of Goleta, Sustainability Coordinator, Cindy Moore, www.cityofgoleta.org/projects-programs/sustainability-climate-adaptation; ACEEE, www.aceee.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News ACEEE, Energy Efficiency,
EmpowerSC includes four main focuses targeting specific areas of energy savings: EmpowerHome -- Offers rebates on equipment such as HVAC and water heating systems, ENERGY STAR®-qualified appliances and smart thermostats. Some of the new rebates are also available for multi-family housing. Low-interest loans for home improvements and home energy audits, or House Calls, are also available.
EmpowerBusiness -- Resources are available to help South Carolina businesses make the best choices when it comes to powering their organizations. EmpowerBusiness also provides rebates for qualifying equipment purchased, which can lead to substantial savings.
EmpowerSolar -- Solar Home and Solar Business can help customers add solar panels to their property and pay part of the cost with rebates and credits. For those who aren't able or don't wish to put panels on their roof, Solar Share allows them to purchase a share of locally produced "community" solar power for as little as $10 per month.
EmpowerAuto -- With the increasing number of electric vehicles on the road, EmpowerAuto provides information to help customers understand, choose and thrive with electric vehicles. Santee Cooper is offering up to $500 in rebates for a qualified, level 2 residential charging station.
(Source: Santee Cooper, PR, 12 Jan., 2021)
Contact: EmpowerSC, www.EmpowerSC.com; Santee Cooper, Mike Poston, Chief Customer Officer, www.santeecooper.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Santee Cooper , Energy Management, Smart Energy, Energy Efficiency,
The project will result in a reduction of more than 61,000 tons of CO2 -- equivalent to 103,000 passenger cars removed from the roads, 58 million gallons of gasoline not combusted or 146,000 acres of pine forest conserved every year over the project life, according to the release. The project is expected to begin commercial operations early next year.
(Source: US Gain, PR, Website, 12 Jan., 2021) Contact: US Gain, Mike Koel, Pres., Stephanie Lowney,
Director of Marketing & Innovation, 920.381.2190, slowney@usgain.com, www.usgain.com; Ameresco, David J. Anderson, EVP, (508) 661-2264, www.ameresco.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco, Landfill Gas, RNG, U.S. Gain, ,
To gain ENERGY STAR recognition, the plant replaced and upgraded various equipment for greater energy efficiency and expanded its energy team and increased energy efficiency awareness throughout the plant.
(Source: CalPortland, Global Cement News , 12 Jan., 2021) Contact: CalPortland, Allen Hamblen, CEO, 520-744-3222, www.calportland.com; DOE ENERGY STAR, www.energystar.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News ENERGY STAR, Energy Efficiency,
The system is connected solution integrated into the home's electrical panel providing real-time information to optimize home energy usage and track savings.
The system gives homeowners greater insight into energy usage and their carbon footprint.
(Source: Schneider Electric, PR, Website, 11 Jan., 2021) Contact: Schneider Electric, Bradford Wills, Director: Strategic Customers & Programs, Home & Distribution, www.se.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Schneider Electric, Energy Efficiency,
The company finds and implements the most efficient and effective ways for organizations to save on energy costs. Verde identifies and swaps out inefficient lighting, refrigeration, HVAC systems, and more with efficient models, while also taking full advantage of utility rebates, discounts and programs. Verde's fees are also reduced under the program. Its initial Customer Virtual Consultation is now free; its In-person Consultation is now free; and its Custom Plan Development is now free for qualifying companies. Verde also provides free analysis and consultation over outside air flow control, a key building component for both energy efficiency and Covid 19 safety.
(Source: Verde Energy Efficiency Experts, PR, Website, 11 Jan., 2021) Contact: Verde Energy Efficiency Experts, Jamie Johnson, CEO, (773) 413-9587, info@verde.expert, www.verde.expert
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,
The Building Energy Performance Policy mandates all non-residential buildings 50,000 square feet and larger to either submit a certification of high energy performance to the City's Office of Sustainability or conduct a tune-up to bring existing building energy systems up to a state of good repair.
To quantify potential cost savings, the City recently conducted a pilot tune-up on the Juvenile Justice Center in West Philadelphia and found that an initial $12,000 investment will result in $24,000 in annual energy savings. Citywide, the Building Energy Performance Program will result in millions of dollars in cost savings for building operators and tenants and lead to an estimated 600 new careers in the clean economy, according to the release.
A requirement for large buildings to tune-up existing systems was a key recommendation from Powering Our Future: A Clean Energy Vision for Philadelphia, a report published by the Office of Sustainability last year to help set goals toward a long-term commitment to cut carbon pollution 80 pct by 2050.
(Source: City of Philadelphia, PR, Website, Jan., 2021)Contact: Philadelphia Office of Sustainability, Christine Knapp, Dir., (215) 686-6210, sustainability@phila.gov; www.phila.gov/departments/office-of-sustainability
More Low-Carbon Energy News Philadelphia Energy Authority, Energy Efficiency, Building Energy Performance,
10. Innovation and finance -- for the wholesale, economy-wide shift away from fossil fuels to a low-carbon energy clean future. (Source: Office of UK PM Boris Johnson, Jan., 2021) Contact:Office of UK PM Boris Johnson, www.email.number10.gov.uk
The measures include: the planting of 2,000 new trees in public spaces in the next three years; creation of a green investment reserve to support energy efficient and energy generating projects including solar energy; encouraging and increasing the use of electric vehicles and installation of EV charging points;
retro-fitting council homes (subsidized low-income housing) for increased energy efficiency; a further £300,000 investment in city-owned property carbon-reduction initiatives; creation of a Climate Change Officer role within city government, and others. (Source: Cambridge City, Varsity, Jan., 2021) Contact: City of Cambridge, www.cambridge.gov.uk
More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Emissions,
The plan also calls for: a concerted development and deployment of: offshore wind; small-scale nuclear; electric vehicles and alternative fuels; increased use of public mass transit; hydrogen;
carbon capture and storage (CCS) "clusters" where groups of power stations, factories or industrial plants could be linked to CCUS infrastructure for greater efficiency and cost savings;
ecosystem funding for tree planting, peatland restoration and similar programs to store carbon; and a wholesale, economy-wide shift away from fossil fuels to a low-carbon energy clean future. (Source: Office of UK PM Boris Johnson, Jan., 2021) Contact:Office of UK PM Boris Johnson, www.email.number10.gov.uk
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The project is the result of an agreement between Curtis and Pittsburgh-based The Efficiency Network (TEN), which was selected through a competitive process. The project is supported by the Pennsylvania Sustainable Energy Finance (PennSEF) program -- a partnership between the Foundation for Renewable Energy and Environment (FREE) and Pennsylvania Treasury.
(Source: Curtis Institute of Music, PR, Blue & Green, 10 Jan., 2021) Contact: The Efficiency Network Inc., 855-429-1010, www.tensaves.com; Curtis Institute of Music, Larry Bomback, VP Admin., www.curtis.edu; Pennsylvania Sustainable Energy Finance, www.thesef.org
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As part of the agreement, DES will work closely with UAEU to assess its current power and water consumption trends and develop a comprehensive plan to improve energy efficiency across all school facilities in line with Abu Dhabi's Demand Side Management and Energy Rationalization Strategy 2030. The strategy targets a 22 pct reduction electric power consumption and a more than 32 pct reduction in water consumption.(Source: Abu Dhabi National Energy Company, Abu Dhabi Energy Services, Trade Arabia, 6 Jan., 2020) Contact: Abu Dhabi Power Corp., www.abudhabipower.ae; Abu Dhabi National Energy Company, www.taqa.com
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According to the press release, Rhode Island has set aggressive energy savings targets for electric and gas utilities' programs that help residential and commercial customers save energy as part of its energy efficiency resource standard. The State government is also adopting cost-saving efficiency measures that are reducing energy demands and operating costs and has also entered into an innovative Strategic Energy Management Plan (SEMP) with National Grid that is actively supporting the deployment of cost-effective efficiency investments across public sector facilities.
(Source: State of Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth & Families, PR, 8 Jan., 2021)
Contact: State of Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth & Families, www.dcyf.ri.gov; ACEEE, www.aceee.org
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Under the agreement, STM and Schneider Electric will increase their cooperation on reducing STM's energy consumption, and increased use of renewable energy and identify and implement ocarbon avoidance and sequestration programs across all of STM locations. The companies will develop additional joint products, technologies, and solutions focused on energy efficiency improvements, supporting digital transformation in buildings, datacenters, industrial applications, and infrastructure.
STM is stepping up its planned global energy procurement of 100 pct renewable energy and to become carbon neutral by 2027, according to the release.
(Source: STMicroelectronics, Website PR, Jan., 2021) Contact: STMicroelectronics, Jean-Marc Chery, Pres. & CEO, www.st.com; Schneider Electric, www.se.com
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The arena is recognized for its energy efficiency and carbon reduction measures, reduced overall energy consumption, intelligent building automation, on-site renewable energy power generation, and replacing all fossil fuel consuming equipment on-site, such as gas-fired rooftop units, hot water heaters and the ice rink dehumidifier. (Source: AMPED Sports Lab and Ice Complex, Canada Green Building Council,
4 Jan., 2021 )
Contact: AMPED Sports Lab and Ice Complex, (613) 822-9000, www.ampedsportslab.com; Canada Green Building Council, (866) 941-1184, info@cagbc.org, www.cagbc.org
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The new bill requires a 100 pct carbon emissions reduction -- carbon neutrality -- by 2050 as opposed to the 2008 climate legislation requiring an 80 pct reduction of 1990 level emissions by 2050.
If passed into law, the new bill would impose emissions sub-limits for certain sectors of the economy, specifically electric power, transportation, commercial heating and cooling, residential, industrial processes and natural gas distribution and service.
The bill also calls for increased carbon sequestration and requires municipal lighting to purchase 50 pct of non-carbon-emitting electricity by 2030, increased energy efficiency, increased reliance on renewable energy,
a five-year moratorium on allowing wood-burning facilities to qualify as "non-carbon emitting resources", increased support for electric vehicles, and other initatives and requirements. (Source: Various Media, MassLive, Jan., 2021)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Massachusetts Climate Change,