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Energy Works helps local home and business owners understand energy efficiency
John Steele
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Tuesday, December 14, 2010
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In November,
Mayor Michael Nutter and members of the Metropolitan Caucus representing Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties launched a new initiative to help
business
and
home
owners save energy.
EnergyWorks
is an informational program and website that helps explain energy rebate programs, tax incentives and home energy audits. One month this 5-county program, it has received hundreds of requests for information. As the program refines its message, EnergyWorks officials hope to create educational programs, outreach efforts and online campaigns to bring new building management solutions and development projects to the region.
"We realized we had to make this a one-stop shop like when you take your car to a mechanic and he fixes the tire and the brake pad and the axle so the whole system runs right," says Philadelphia Deputy Chief of Staff for Economic Development Andy Rachlin. "Building management is very complicated and oftentimes people won't know what is wrong. They know that they are cold in the winter, hot in the summer and their energy bills are sky high. So we help them improve energy usage from start to finish."
The process begins with a complete energy assessment to determine the energy leaks where simple solutions like insulation may do the trick. Program instructors also recommend switching to energy efficient light bulbs and setting thermostat timers. If you own a business and you want to go bigger, EnergyWorks can help you find rebates for everything from energy efficient appliances to six- and seven-figure loan financing for construction projects designed to expand your business in a sustainable way. But the most important thing, says Rachlin, is that people understand the importance of energy.
"At a local level, these things help lower people's bills and make them more comfortable," says Rachlin. "But this is more than just a local issue. Climate change is something that won't be affected without everyone working together."
Source:
Andy Rachlin, EnergyWorks
Writer:
John Steele
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Moving Here
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Neighborhood Innovation
,
Sustainability
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