Monday, June 25, 2012

Energy Audits: Science, Not Guesswork

Without an energy audit how does one decide where to put their efforts and resources in regard to energy efficiency? Many people feel that they need new windows, or new doors, or want solar panels. A professional energy audit takes the guess work out of where in your home or business energy improvements should be made. The modern energy audit utilizes state-of- the-art testing equipment like infrared camera thermography, blower door air pressure testing with very sensitive pressure testing manometers, and combustion analyzers to hone in on where energy efficiencies are lacking.

Our national testing laboratories, Oakridge Tennessee, Lawrence Berkley, California, and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, in Golden Colorado, have developed very sophisticated testing techniques coupled with massive data sets to build complex algorithms that accurately predict the energy savings associated with common upgrades like new windows, additional insualtion in the attic or walls, as well as furnace or boiler upgrades. Today's professional energy auditors are nationally certified and, through training, have developed an understanding of the home as a system. These computer modeling software applications now accurately predict the energy savings of proposed improvements. 

Don't just guess where to invest your hard earned dollars. Rather, hire a professional to analyze and model your home. Then make smart investments in your home or busineses energy management. Return on investment should be your guide and a smart energy investment will pay you back for years to come.

4CORE encourages our community members to make these smart energy efficiency choices. There is a multiplier effect which takes your investment in efficiency further: When you save on your utility burden these dollars are proven to stay in the community.

Don't wait for higher utility prices, get an energy audit now. Begin by learning more about 4CORE's new HomeRx Program, which escorts you through the auditing process, or find an auditor on the 4CORE webpage.


About the Author: 
Gregg Dubit, 4CORE Executive Director Born and raised in the Washington D.C. area Gregg has been in Southwest Colorado for over 20 years. Greggs’ previous experience includes Commercial energy auditing, Residential Services Network training and certification, residential general contracting, residential real estate inspection services, high school math and science teacher, former ski patroller, and aged outward bound instructor. Gregg has certifications as a BPI Building Analyst, RESNET Commercial Energy Management, Lead Safe Renovator, as well as in 2009 International Residential Code Compliance and OSHA 10. In addition, Gregg is an avid dog musher, proud father of Lydia and Hayden, and happily married to Gretchen.

Friday, June 15, 2012

Lend Me an Upgrade!


Local Loans Available for Energy Upgrades  
  
There's a new, simple way for home and business owners in Southwest Colorado to make energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades to their homes and offices. Region 9 Economic Development District andFirst National Bank are partnering with the Colorado Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) to bring loan options for energy upgrades to our area. CHFA's Green Colorado Credit Reserve helps lending institutions offer loans for energy upgrades by incentivizing local lending institutions with a "reserve account" that offers them some protection in the event that a borrower defaults on a loan.

This is allowing businesses and homeowners to take out low-interest loans in order to reduce their energy bills allowing them to pay back the loan more quickly. This summer, make energy upgrades your home or business and take advantage of this new loan program! For more information, contact 4CORE, or the lending institutions below:

Business Energy Upgrade Loan
Ed Morlan
Region 9 Economic Development District
970-247-9621
email Ed

Home Energy Upgrade Loan
Kathy Burgess
First National Bank of Durango
970-247-3020
email Kathy

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Potential Energy Tour in 2012 Call for Nominations


4CORE is researching the possibility of holding the Energy Tour in 2012 and reaching out for home or business nominations to be on the tour.

The Energy Tour would be held on Saturday, September 29th. We are looking for 4 - 5 (homes/businesses) to showcase energy efficiency, renewables and/or other resource efficient design. 
 All homes or businesses must:  
  • have at least two energy features (renewable or efficiency)
  • be available for show by owner and renewable/efficiency installer on Saturday, September 29th, 
  • be located within 5 miles of Durango City Limits,
  • have adequate parking for 5-8 vehicles at a time, and
  • not be for sale during the tour.


Nominate Now!


Please nominate a property by Thursday, June 21st to ensure your nomination is reviewed.

Interested in Sponsoring this year's potential tour?



Benefits include logo placement on tour maps, posters and internet communications, as well as name placement on mailed invitations, radio interviews, and other spoken announcements.