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by Marcy Denker
Many of us have heard about energy efficiency incentive programs to help us save gas and electricity, but relatively few have actually used them, or even know what’s available. We’d like to retrofit our homes to deal with how much heat and cold is getting in or out, eliminate drafts, or get up to speed on new cleaner and greener heating and cooling options. But sorting out the opportunities takes time and can be confusing.
But as the climate heats up, we need to bring carbon emissions down. After our cars, our buildings produce the biggest chunk of our carbon footprint–in Nyack and across the country. An inventory in 2013 showed that buildings produced 39% of Nyack’s greenhouse gas emissions.
The village is starting to track emissions and wants to help building owners do all they can to bring that number down. You can start by joining your neighbors at a workshop on free and low cost home energy efficiency programs this month at Nyack Library.
The workshop will help residents, small businesses, renters, and owners understand their options for home energy audits and other programs, and get follow up help too. Home energy audits are free, so there is nothing to lose!
Who should come to workshop?
Anyone who owns a house or rents an apartment and pays a utility bill can learn about programs suitable for them. There are different programs based on income and whether you rent or own your home. Lower income renters may be eligible for free lighting, water efficiency, refrigeration upgrades, and air sealing. Income-eligible apartment dwellers and landlords in small multi-family homes can work together to provide the required information so that everyone benefits from whole-house retrofits, like insulation and heating and cooling upgrades.
What programs will be discussed at the workshop?
Four programs will be the main focus, but questions about other programs and initiatives are welcome.
- Empower NY providing no-cost energy efficiency solutions to income-eligible New Yorkers.
- Home Energy Performance with Energy Star.
- Assisted Home Performance with Energy Star.
- Multi-Family Performance Program for Existing Buildings.
Save Money and Energy Workshop at Nyack Library Community Room, October 28, 2019, 6:30-8p. Free and Open to the public. For more information and to register, contact Nyack Sustainability Coordinator Marcy Denker mbdenker@gmail.com.
Earth Matters, a weekly feature that focuses on conservation, sustainability, recycling and healthy living, is sponsored by Maria Luisa Boutique, and Strawtown Studio. Read Earth Matters every Wednesday on Nyack News And Views, or sign up for the Earth Matters mailing list.
