Looking to save money and update your home’s AC, heating, plumbing concerns? Here is some great information and deals from Mike Donley of Donley Service Centers in Phoenix.

• SRP is announcing the launch of its SRP PowerWise Cooling System Check-UP Special Offer. For a limited time SRP Customers can get a Cooling System Inspection for $29.95. SRP compensates the contractor (Donley Service Center) an additional $30.00 to complete the maintenance. SRP customers have a great opportunity to get a $59.95 service for only $29.95. We complete all the paper work, the customer just needs us to service their system. The Donley Difference is that SRP is advertising a 16 point check, but we will do our regular “Donley Home Comfort Plan Maintenance inspection” which is a 58 point cleaning and tuning of the system, regularly $75.00 for the SRP price of $29.95. The SRP program started February 1st – For your check up, call DONLEY SERVICE at (602) 870-6840.

• Donley uses a device on water heaters that can get you HOT water immediately, so you save money and don’t waste time and water going down the drain. It’s called the “Comforts Pump”.

• Need a new Air Conditioner? Consider an Energy Star one! Arizona Appliance Efficiency Program – Mike says “The 30% tax credit for high efficiency a/c replacements is the one our customers are benefiting from the most.” Energy Efficiency is the quickest, cheapest, cleanest way to extend our world’s energy supplies.

• The Donley Solar Water Heating System is an active closed-loop system that provides their customers with the latest in solar technology from SunEarth Inc., a leader in today’s solar industry. The investment upfront is made easier with large Federal and State tax credits and utility (APS and SRP) rebates that can account for up to 80% of the cost a standard installation.
• Got Plumbing problems? There may be a few things you can do BEFORE calling a plumber. Check out the video from ABC 15 here.

For more deals on all your home plumbing/AC/Heating needs, click here

For more information about Donley Service Center, go online at www.donleyservice.com or call today at (602) 997-6115.

Electronics use power even when they are not completely turned on.

Some home electronics use energy even when they are turned off to power certain features like display clocks and remote controls. The average U.S. household spends roughly $100.00 a year to power those small devices while they are on the stand by mode. You can save this money by plugging things into surge protectors and turning them off when you are not using them.

If you have a computer, adjust the power management settings to save energy. Don’t use screen savers, instead set your computer to be on energy-saving mode while you are not tending to it. Better yet, plug your desktop computer and surrounding lights or other desk accessories into a power cord, also.

When purchasing new electronics, take in to consideration the Energy Star ratings. Energy Star-qualified copiers use less energy by making two-sided copies and running cooler. Energy Star-qualified TV models are up to 30% more efficient than those that are not. If you are looking to purchase a new computer, think about investing in a laptop. Laptops use less energy than desktop computers.

Amber N. Johnson
Licensed REALTOR ®
Your First Time Home Buyer and Foreclosure Specialist
Mickey Hage, Inc. Real Estate Brokerage
Cell: 321-689-8196
Email: amber@mickeyhage.com
Website: www.orlandoforeclosurespecialists.com

Serving most of Central Florida including: Downtown Orlando, Colonialtown, College Park, Baldwin Park, Conway, Lake Nona, East Orlando, UCF, Waterford Lakes, Avalon Park, Bithlo, Christmas, Hunters Creek, Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Metrowest, Ocoee,  Maitland, Oviedo, Winter Park, Casselberry, Winter Springs, Chuluota, Sanford, Lake Mary, Longwood, Altamonte Springs, Disney, Kissimmee, Saint Cloud, and Harmony.

Independent third party verification is a key part of LEED® for Homes, ENERGY STAR®, NAHB National Green Building Program, the U.S Environmental Protection Agency’s – Indoor airPLUS, and the U.S. Department Of Energy’s – Builder’s Challenge programs. Inspectors or raters check the home for compliance with each program’s requirements.ENERGY STAR® Thermal Bypass Inspection Checklist

Qualifying as an ENERGY STAR® home is a mandatory minimum level of energy performance required for LEED® for Homes. Completion of the Thermal Bypass Inspection Checklist is the first step of the qualification process.

At the same time the Thermal Bypass Inspection was being performed, so were the 1^st inspections for LEED® for Homes, the NAHB National Green Building Program, and Indoor airPLUS. 

       LEED® for Homes Simplified Project Checklist

    Verification Report – NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines

Indoor airPLUS Verification Checklist

*this is not a promotional offer. Just keep reading; you’ll catch on.

(Unfortunately, the washer that comes with a drum full of $100 bills is now discontinued.)

The amount you’ll save on water and electricity costs over the life (in this case, 11 years) of an Energy Star washer will pay for the matching dryer.

You’ve heard plenty anecdotal advice about energy-efficient appliances saving you money on your utility bills.

But when you’re comparing price tags — an estimated $492 for a conventional washer versus an estimated $750 for an Energy Star-qualified washer — it may seem like you won’t save money at all.

But let me run the numbers for you, given the above estimates with an average of 7.5 loads per week, according to the Energy Star Web site (aka my second home):

$258 (initial cost difference)
$481 (life cycle savings)
___________________
$223 (net life cycle savings)

So, you’ll save $223 over the life of the washer, meaning that you’ll make up for the upfront additional cost of an energy-efficient model within 4.7 years.  But that’s just the savings of a standard new washer versus an Energy Star washer. Most Energy Star washers replace a old “clunker.”

Nearly 30% of all clothes washers in the U.S. are more than 10 years old. Replacing a model that old with an Energy Star model can save you more than $135 a year on your utility bills.

$135 x 11 (average life span) = $1485 savings.

$1485? That buys a really nice dryer.

First up today is a piece about companies not giving their employees incentives not to do inefficient things in the data center. Incentives for not screwing up? That used to be called keeping your job.

Next is a piece about data center Energy Star ratings based on PUE coming in June. I’ve written before about how PUE is useless as a tool to compare different data centers and is ridiculously easy to manipulate. Let the shoveling of BS commence!

ps I notice the Energy Star process only talks about self entered data and no audit process to verify the data center is actually doing what they say they are. This should be entertaining.

Are you looking for cloud computing services, virtual servers, workstations, desktops, or file servers? Call or email me or visit the SwiftWater Telecom web site today!

Vern

The EPA announced that they are expanding the Energy Star Program to include data centers; the measurements are expected to be finalized in June 2010.

The EPA is hoping that the new Energy Star rating for data centers will become a selling point for data centers. The new rating is based largely (but not completely) on the PUE (or Power Usage Effectiveness). William Kosik wrote an article in the September 2007 issue of Engineered Systems Magazine that explains PUE quite well and in detail.

Google talks about their efforts for power-efficient computing in their data centers in some depth; it’s very interesting.

IBM also announced just recently that they are building a new data center in Research Triangle Park where they will test effect of various temperature levels in the data center – and will cool it with outside air as well.

This is definitely an exciting time for data center power research; seems that there is something new every day.

By Elisa Wood

February 4, 2010

It’s clear that the energy efficiency industry is undergoing an unprecedented boom, spurred by state and federal support and movement toward a smarter grid. But for those in the industry, where exactly can the new business – and the jobs – be found?

Two new reports by Colorado-based Pike Research shed some light.

After years of focusing on bringing efficiency to manufacturing, policymakers are turning attention to deep retrofits for the home. Tax credits, low-cost financing, and other incentives make it easier for homeowners to install efficient heating systems, replace windows and insulate attics.

Thus, if you are a home energy auditor – or thinking of becoming one – you are in luck. The report forecasts that the energy auditing market will triple from $8.1 billion in 2009 to $23.4 billion by 2014. And from those audits will come recommendations that spur home improvements. Pike Research predicts a $50.2 billion market in the installation of new electrical systems, appliances and major equipment, HVAC systems, roofing, windows and doors and other efficiency improvements by 2014, up from $39.3 billion.

The more efficient homes need more efficient appliances, so the Energy Star appliance market also may see revenue growth. Under a business-as-usual scenario the industry is expected to generate $21.9 billion by 2014. But the market could see the addition of another $11.3 billion under a high-penetration efficiency scenario, says the study.

“Energy efficiency is stepping into the light after a long period of obscurity,” says Clint Wheelock, Pike Research managing director.  “A number of factors are converging to make energy efficient residential products and services a hot sector over the next several years.  These drivers include increased environmental awareness among consumers, government incentives, utility energy efficiency programs, and new offerings and rebates from product manufacturers.”

Meanwhile, the US also is realizing that a smart grid must be a safe grid. Increased attention is being placed on cyber security, measures to protect the electrical grid from attacks by terrorists and hackers, natural disasters, equipment failures and human error.

Companies that offer services and equipment to secure the grid are seeing a rapid increase in demand for their wares. Pike Research forecasts that from 2010 to 2015 about $21 billion will be invested globally in cyber security for the smart grid.

“No utility wants to be the weak link in the chain,” Wheelock says “The concern over grid vulnerability is driving utility technologists to work closely with systems integrators, infrastructure suppliers, and standards bodies to develop a robust framework for smart grid cyber security across multiple domains.”

The report finds that equipment protection and configuration management will experience greatest demand. Among smart grid applications, the firm expects that the greatest investments will go into cyber security for distribution automation (DA) and transmission upgrades, followed by security measures for advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) smart meters.

See www.pikeresearch.com for more details.

Visit Elisa Wood at http://www.realenergywriters.com/ and pick up her free Energy Efficiency Markets podcast and newsletter.

The process of insulating the house begins by sealing all holes and cracks where air leakage might occur. Air leakage can cause indoor air quality problems, condensation, excess energy use, and comfort complaints. Leakage from outdoors to indoors is known as infiltration and leakage from indoors to outdoors is known as exfiltration.

Dow Great Stuff Pro™ Gaps & Cracks insulating foam sealant is sprayed around wiring from the attic through the top plate of an interior wall. 

Holes in top plate that were drilled and then not used are filled the foam. This is done to eliminate air movement inside the wall cavity.

Holes in studs are filled the foam. This same foam is applied to wire openings in all electrical boxes.  

The same is applied to the shim space around all windows and exterior doors.

The joint between the bottom plates of all exterior walls and the floor is caulked. This includes the basement walls as well.

The insulation system for the walls is Johns Mansville’s loose-fill fiber glass Spider Custom Blow-In-Blanket with an R value of 23. Since it is fiberglass it will not hold moisture, it will not support mold growth, it will not rot or decompose and is non-combustible. The system is formaldehyde-free, and contains no acidic fire retardant chemicals.

Part of the insulation system is netting that is stabled to the studs on all the Main Level exterior walls. View of West Kitchen wall.

Netting installed on the South Living Room / Kitchen wall.

The rim joist space is enclosed with the netting in order to be filled the insulation.

Insulation being blown into the netted stud space.

Insulation being blown into the netted rim joist space.

Selected interior walls were netted on both sides and filled with insulation to reduce sound transmission from one room to another.

Insulation applied around the skylight tubes.

Air chutes are installed at all soffit vents to keep attic insulation from blocking the air circulation in the attic.

Batt insulation is installed in the vaulted ceiling above the Kitchen.

A paper “ruler” is stapled in the roof trusses a various locations as a gauge for the installer when the attic insulation is installed.

After the drywall is complete, the Attic is insulated with Johns Mansville Climate Pro/Attic Protector formaldehyde-free loose fill fiberglass insulation for an R value of 38. 

View of the East wall of the East Basement Bedroom with blown in insulation above and the rigid Styrofoam on the concrete view-out wall below.

In addition to the 1” Styrofoam that was applied to the basement walls prior to starting framing, the exterior basement walls are insulated with paper faced R13 fiberglass batts.

Upon completion of the insulation, another series of inspections are completed to assure compliance with the LEED® for Homes, ENERGY STAR®, NAHB Green Building, Indoor airPlus, and the Builders Challenge programs.

The EPA sent out a reminder today of the $1,500 Tax Credit for Consumer Energy Efficiency.  The credit allows for 30% of the cost of the qualifying upgrade up to $1,500.  Pretty handy if you need new HVAC equipment, appliances or light fixtures.

Check out the link at the ENERGY STAR website.

I spent Tuesday reacquainting myself with my old friends over at the ENERGY STAR program by attending the ENERGY STAR information sessions for Servers and Storage that preceded the Green Grid Technical Forum. It was interesting seeing things from the “other side of the podium” by being a stakeholder at these meetings instead of being in my old role of assisting the EPA on the development of the specifications.

Status of the Specifications

In terms of status, there seems to be some significant work to be done on both specifications, but as usual EPA is asking the right questions. For both specifications the question is how can you quantify the generalized “efficiency” of the product, or the amount of useful work and performance you get from a system for a given energy consumption? This is the ideal outcome of this process – what everyone wants. As Andrew Fanara (the lead representative of the EPA) said, “I’d also like to ride a unicorn to work”. Meaning that it would be impossible to get a perfect metric, so for now we need a method to rank IT equipment by it’s efficiency, but don’t expect it to be perfect. There’s hope that we’ll get there eventually, but it will be a long processes, as there are a lot of details to be worked out.  The server specification feels like it’s getting closer – they’re currently working on version 2.0 so they’ve been asking these questions for longer – but there’s still a lot of work to be done.  One good thing is the EPA is showing that they’re willing to think a little differently about these products.  I think this is necessary because the complexity of these products and the subtleties of this market make theses specification development efforts very different from many other products the EPA is used to dealing with.

Utilities and ENERGY STAR

I’ve been feeling that there is a gap in thinking between the EPA and the utility industry, and the funny thing is that I think they really need each other. The utilities are constantly looking for new savings opportunities and it’s a lot easier for them to develop effective programs if they are built on the back of good efficiency specifications.  What the EPA needs are stakeholders with a voice to help drive these specifications towards increased levels of rigor for energy savings.

In addition, there needs to be a closing of the gap between the needs of utilities and the output of the ENERGY STAR program. ENERGY STAR should be producing specifications that can easily be adopted for utility programs.  This should be a high priority for ENERGY STAR, but it feels like the current process is to produce the specification without utilities in mind, and then try and adapt the result to a program.  If utilities want to play in this space, they need to be at the table learning about this industry and helping drive the agenda.

Right now vendors dominate the ENERGY STAR meetings. The vendors are extremely knowledgeable, but obviously biased towards their own products and agendas. The meetings often result in vendors standing up and talking about what isn’t possible or what EPA shouldn’t do. What the efficiency community needs are stakeholders at the table telling EPA what they need to help make these specifications useful tools to leverage for energy savings. The way to speed up this process and to keep ENERGY STAR specifications relevant is to have efficiency advocates help drive the process.  This may involve helping generate data and providing some technical resources. This will be expensive, but if the utilities (and other EE advocates) pool their efforts this should be cost effective and will help ensure a useful product for adoption.  The more utilities bring to the table, the more influence they will have.

The thing is that EVERYONE should benefit from useful ENERGY STAR specifications and effective utility programs that leverage these specifications:  ENERGY STAR can further increase their growing relevance in this emerging market; utilities can run influential and cost effective programs to meet their goals; and vendors can market more efficient product offerings.  It’s a win, win, win.  We can no longer let the voices of manufacturers, who seem afraid of being left out of the party because of inefficient product offerings, dominate this conversation. It’s time for utilities and other advocates to team together and help influence this process to get a leg up in this market.

1. What is an Energy Star Home?

According to the U.S. Government, an Energy Star qualified home
uses at least 30% less energy in heating, cooling and hot water,
than those built according to the 1993 National Model Energy
Code. Energy Star homes may use even less energy than homes
built before 1993.

carbon emissions nationwide and the home is Energy Star compliant? The Energy Star certificate. Verified Energy Star qualified home uses at least 30% less energy than homes built before 1993. 2. What techniques are used in building an Energy Star home? Energy Star homes also have a higher resale value. 4. Are Energy Star lender. Energy Star Home? According to the 1993 National Model Energy Code. Energy Star homes are built with energy efficient appliances, high performance windows, improved insulation, tightly sealed construction with little air infiltration, upgraded heating and air conditioning systems, efficient ducting, and upgraded water heating equipment.

3. Can an Energy Star label should be prominently displayed near the circuit breaker box of your new home. You can also ask the builder for the home’s Energy Star compliant? The Energy Star label should be prominently displayed near the circuit breaker box of your new home. You can also ask the builder for the environment? Yes. 15 percent of U.S. energy use is from home consumption. Home energy use is from home consumption. Home energy use produces 17 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. Since 1995, Energy Star homes healthier to live in? Yes.

Energy Star certificate. Verified Energy Star homes may use even less energy than homes built before 1993. 2. What techniques are used in building an Energy Star qualified homes by the year 2012. 5. Are Energy Star qualified homes by the year 2012. 5. Are Energy Star homes comfortable? Yes. Because the home is much quieter. Room temperature is equalized in different locations of the home. Air ducting is balanced, producing the same amount of air flow from each grill, even in remote rooms. 7.

If you’ve had visions of ENERGY STAR appliances dancing in your head, look out for March!  As expected, a Cash for Clunkers-style rebate program focusing on energy efficient appliances will launch soon to help Americans upgrade old energy wasters.

If you’re interested, make sure to replace the biggest energy hogs in your home first – fridges and clothes washers.  The rule of thumb is that if your appliance is old enough to vote, it’s time to replace it!  That avocado green fridge might have been stylish once upon a time, but now it’s using three times more energy than a modern ENERGY STAR-rated model – and you’re paying out the nose for the difference.

Even though new appliances cost a little more up front, the savings over time are insane!

“You would save over $250 a year on an average 20-year-old refrigerator if you replaced it,” [Joe] McGuire [president of the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers] said. “That’s about $1,200 over five years. That is real savings to consumers.”

:: Yahoo

Frugality and quality are the new mantras in our changing world. Gone are the days of “the one with the most toys wins.” And good riddance. Earth911 has put together 10 simple things each of us can do to conserve, not only to save the environment, but to regain an appreciation for the things on which our lives depend.

by Earth911

The Issue

Environmentally Un-friendly Super Bowl parties!

The Larger Issue

• A typical party of thirty guests can create 80 pounds of waste!

Be Part of the Solution

How can I entertain in an environmentally friendly way?

• Watch the big game on Energy Star certified TV’s, or better yet, listen to it on the radio, or better yet, wait until the next day to ask someone who won (Just Kidding)!
• Instead of sending out paper invitations, send electronic invitations from a site like www.evite.com!
• Bake your own snacks and desserts with organic, locally grown ingredients and extra love!
• Instead of using streamers and balloons, decorate with small plants.  You can give the plants away as parting gifts at the end of the party.
• Buy organic beer, or if the part is really big, rent a keg to decrease glass bottle and aluminum can waste!
• Instead of buying bottled water, use a filtered water pitcher!
• Use real plates, silverware and cloth napkins and stay away from disposable paper plates and utensils and napkins.  If you must use disposable plates, buy plates that are biodegradable, in fact, some disposable plates are made from corn, potato and sugar-cane pulp!
• Provide recycling bins for glass bottles, cans and plastic.
• Use environmentally friendly cleaning products and cloths rags to clean up after the party.

To learn more about sustainability at St. Petersburg College, contact Jason Green at green.jason@spcollege.edu.  Then visit http://www.spcollege.edu/sustainability, join the facebook group and follow us at http://twitter.com/sustainableSPC.

Go green. What does it mean? Where do you go to get answers and guidance when you want to “green up” your home? Do these questions have you stymied? Making your home a green home isn’t just about buying Energy Star appliances. After all, Energy Star is just a name. It’s important to analyze the energy efficiency of each appliance regardless of its “star” rating. But, lets go further.

What exactly are you trying to do? A home renovation is a lot different than building a home from scratch. With a home improvement you have limitations on what you can do. It’s vital that you get some answers, create a plan, and execute your plan so that you reap some rewards.

House Remodeling Goals When Going Green

I want to explore some ways that will help you decide what will work for you in a remodel. With cost and practicality issues, you simply can’t do everything you may want to do.

Over the years of helping people upgrade their homes, I’ve learned a few things that really help them decide what’s most important to them. One thing I did was play a game with them. It’s called the “Features & Benefits Game”. Let’s play a simple version of it now. First, we’ll talk about green features.

FEATURES:

Adding Energy Star (efficient) appliances to your home
Replacing toxin-emitting materials like paints, carpeting, insulations, etc.
Increasing and replacing insulation and sealing leaks
Changing light bulbs to low voltage/wattage use bulbs
New energy efficient, low-E windows and insulated doors
Energy efficient heating and air systems with filtered air

Make your own list of things you want to do. Expand on the list as you research and discover new items and processes that make sense to you. Analyze costs for materials and get bids on labor. Then, think about the benefits of each.

BENEFITS:

Healthier environment inside your home
Lower utility costs each month
A more comfortable home
Peace of mind knowing you’re saving money and helping the environment

Brainstorm as many benefits as you can think of. Once you convert your ideas into potential benefits, it’s much easier to see just what is important to you and what isn’t. What’s worth spending the money to accomplish? Which items move down the priority list?

Re-prioritize and Do What Benefits You the Most

By following what adds to your life and not what others are saying is important, you will not only save money but you’ll be far more eager to get the job done. Keep it simple. Match the budget you’ve set for yourself and get started.

Nissan’s facility in Canton, Miss. is the first vehicle assembly plant to receive the 2009 ENERGY STAR from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This is the fourth-consecutive year the plant has received the award, placing the facility among the top 25 percent of auto assembly plants in the United States.

“It means something special when your company is connected with ENERGY STAR,” said Dan Bednarzyk, vice president, Manufacturing-Canton. “That’s why we’re always proud to receive this award and will continually strive to look for new and beneficial ways to protect the environment and improve energy efficiency.”

ENERGY STAR partners commit to measure and benchmark energy performance, reduce the intensity of energy use at all facilities, and educate staff and the public about ENERGY STAR.

The Canton facility has engaged all employees in energy-management practices, eliminated compressed air leaks, reduced startup and shutdown time on process equipment and improved controls for paint-process systems. Furthermore, the facility installed variable-speed electric-motor drives that match motor loads to the duty required.

“Receiving the ENERGY STAR is a testament to the compatibility of improving our environment while enhancing the corporate bottom line,” said Jean Lupinacci, director, Commercial and Industrial Branch.

To learn more about an energy-efficient Nissan, stop by Pomoco Nissan today.

Source: NissanNews.com

On Jan. 19, CEA submitted comments to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy regarding the agencies’ recent memorandum of understanding and Enhanced Program Plan for ENERGY STAR products. Both documents propose significant administrative and program changes to ENERGY STAR. CEA’s comments focused on the following concerns and issues: the proposed requirement for product testing by accredited labs; the imposition of a top-tier “Super Star” program; the proposal for overall limits on energy use; the agencies’ responsiveness to stakeholder comments; the use of advocates as consultants; product testing and product returns; and the use of industry test procedures.

According to the U.S. EPA and the U.S. DOE, the following program changes have been suggested:

ENERGY STAR Products Program

Program design: The ENERGY STAR products program will be enhanced in the following ways:

1. Specifications will be set so that the ENERGY STAR logo is applied consistently with established program principles and with approximately only the top quartile of products eligible.
2. Product coverage will be expanded to include new consumer products with high energy saving potential.
3. Verification of compliance with program requirements will be increased and efforts will be enhanced to identify and address product performance issues.
4. An ENERGY Super Star program will be nested within the ENERGY STAR program to enable consumers to identify the top performing products.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Management. The EPA will manage the ENERGY STAR products program and the new Super Star program, in consultation with DOE.
• Testing for Program Purposes. EPA will maintain product testing results data with support from DOE as agreed to by the Agencies. DOE will lead the development of product testing procedures and metrics with EPA assisting where necessary.

National Building Rating Program

Program design: The National Building Rating program will be enhanced in the following ways:

1. A comprehensive whole building scale-based rating tool will be developed and promoted that reflects both the physical characteristics of a building (asset rating) and a way to compare the actual energy use of existing buildings with similar buildings.
2. A labeling scheme will be developed to easily convey the energy use information from the whole building scale-based rating tool.
3. The whole building scale-based rating tool will take account of the inherent building envelope, major energy-using equipment and appliances, and past performance based on utility bills.
4. The whole building scale-based rating tool will be updated periodically to reflect improvements in building technology and analytical tools, and to enhance usability.
5. The eligibility of buildings for the ENERGY STAR logo as applied to buildings will be based on the rating systems of the National Building Rating Program.
6. The criteria for the ENERGY STAR logo will be updated periodically to reflect improvements in building energy efficiency, diagnostic capability, and market appetite for energy efficiency, and will be based on established program principles for the ENERGY STAR brand.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Management. DOE will manage the National Building Rating program including the development of the whole building scale-based rating tool and associated labeling scheme, in consultation with EPA. EPA will continue its efforts to encourage key stakeholders to build new buildings to ENERGY STAR levels and improve existing buildings.
• Testing for Program Purposes. DOE will maintain building performance data with support from EPA as agreed to by the Agencies. EPA will support various aspects of the program and assist DOE with input to help inform development of the framework, tools, and updates of the rating schemes
• Specification Levels. The performance levels for the ENERGY STAR when applied to buildings will be set by EPA, with technical input provided by DOE and the National Building Rating Tool, consistent with established principles for the program.

Overall program coordination

• DOE and EPA will periodically evaluate and as appropriate modify their program efforts to ensure that the ENERGY STAR and National Building Rating programs are mutually reinforcing and coordinated.

To view the entire Memorandum of Understanding on Improving the Energy Efficiency of Products and Buildings, click here.

LEED Platinum-Certified Sidwell Friends School in Washington, DC. Photo credit: © Barry Halkin

I’ve been working in the building construction industry (on the periphery) for almost two years. During that time I’ve learned how we build and how some builders, architects, and remodelers are striving to build better. I write stories on USGBC’s LEED program, NAHB’s National Green Building Standard and Energy Star-rated homes for clients on a monthly basis.

It seems, however,  that every time I research a recent third-party certified”green home,” I’m startled by the price tag – you can’t purchase a green home for less than a cool million. And while I love the contemporary, angular homes complete with all of the energy efficient bells and whistles and more than their share of clean, white spaces, I don’t think this is the way to make a marked change in the housing sector.

The industry is on the precipice of real change and the time for action is now.

Sustainable, energy-efficient living can and must be affordable. There has to be a way for average Americans to afford technologies that create healthier, more sustainable homes on a conservative budget or green building will fail to catch hold and change, on a large scale, will never be seen. This is not to say that I don’t have great respect for the remarkable green residential and commercial projects that many construction professionals have completed in the past few years. Their efforts have made green building standards serious goals to strive towards and have forced product manufacturers to take notice, innovate, and produce high-quality, efficient products that save energy and resources.

I want to make green building more accessible.

This space will provide consumers, builders, architects, and remodelers with information on products and practices that are affordable, efficient upgrades to existing homes and new construction projects. I will not ignore “high-end” green homes, but will highlight the green improvements within and find similar, affordable options for the budget-conscious eco-builder.

I’m looking for smart, cost- and resource-effective ways we can all be greener together and I’m looking forward to sharing what I find with you.

Comments and story leads will always be appreciated.

Treehugger.com notes that the EPA has made a push towards energy efficiency in the food processing industry, and has recently given three food processing companies an Energy Star rating. The companies: J.R. Simplot Company’s Aberdeen, J.R. Simplot Company’s Othelllo, and ConAgra Foods Lamb Weston Inc. operate potato processing plants.

These plants combined saved more than $10 million and reduced carbon emissions equivalent to the electricity use of 5,000 homes. The Energy Star Guidelines outline areas where the most significant efficiency savings can be acquired. When it comes to these plants, processing efficiency is critical. The freezing process is one of the most energy intensive operations in their manufacturing. After freezing, the next largest energy consumer is typically the frying process, which consumes a significant amount of fuel to heat the frying oil. Peeling, precooking, cooking, and drum drying are estimated to be very energy intensive processes as well, according to an EPA study. Drum drying is a process used in dehydrated mashed potatoes. These plants made improvements in three categories: processing, facility, and overall energy management.

Need a new fridge? How about one that comes with $200?

I’ve been eating, sleeping and breathing the upcoming appliance stimulus program, which I like to call Cash for Appliances and the State of Minnesota likes to call the “Trade & Save Appliance Program.”

The program’s official site launched today with information about the program. At 8 a.m. March 1, the site will launch a rebate reservation module.

To keep yourself busy until then, consider my frequently asked questions. Add your own questions in the comments and I’ll be sure to answer them.

If you rely on e-mail reminders to keep from missing important events, you’ll love our Appliance Stimulus E-mail Alerts. We’ll make sure you get the best shot at getting a rebate. E-mail stimulus@warnersstellian.com with the subject SUBSCRIBE.

What appliances qualify for a rebate?

How many rebates will be available?

What is Energy Star?

Aren’t all new appliances energy-efficient?

Do I have to spend a certain amount to get a rebate?

How will I receive the rebate?

Are there income limits?

How much money can I get?

When does the program start?

How do I sign up?

How long does the program run?

What if rebate funds run out for the appliance category I want to buy?

Can I get a rebate on a previous appliance purchase?

Is there a limit of rebates per household?

Can I get these rebates in conjunction with rebates from my utility/municipality?

Can renters/rental property owners receive a rebate?

Do I have to turn in my old appliance to be eligible for a rebate?

Why can’t I get a rebate for buying a new dryer or stove?

Where can I buy an appliance to get my rebate?

Do you haul away/recycle my old appliances?

How long will it take to get my rebate?

Why are there two rebate amounts listed under refrigerators and freezers?

Will retailers have the forms I need?

Who administers the rebates?

What appliances qualify for a rebate?

Energy Star-labeled refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers and clothes washers will be eligible for a rebate.

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How many rebates will be available?

Approximately 25,450 rebates will be available:

• 6,035 clothes washers ($200 rebate)
• 6,005 dishwashers ($150 rebate)
• 1,999 freezers ($100 rebate with purchase and “proof of demanufacturing”; $50 for purchase only)
• 11,411 refrigerators ($200 rebate with purchase and “proof of demanufacturing”; $100 for purchase only)

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What is Energy Star?

Energy Star is the government labeling system that helps consumers identify the most energy-efficient products, including appliances. Learn more at www.energystar.gov.

Your sales associate will be trained on the requirements of the program and can help you select an Energy Star appliance that qualifies for a rebate and fits your specific needs.

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Aren’t all new appliances energy-efficient?

To some degree, yes. The federal government holds all new appliances to certain standards. Energy Star labels appliances that go a specific percentage above and beyond that standard, depending on appliance category.

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Do I have to spend a certain amount to get a rebate?

No.

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How will I receive the rebate?

After going through the rebate reservation process and the rebate submission process, you will receive a check in the mail in approximately 30 days.

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Are there income limits?

No.

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How much money can I get?

Households are limited to one rebate, which max out at $200 for a clothes washer or refrigerator with proof that the old refrigerator has been properly recycled. Customers can receive a $150 rebate for a dishwasher or $100 for a freezer with proof of recycling.

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When does the program start?

A rebate reservation website will launch at 8 a.m. CST, March 1, 2010, at which time you can also call 1-877-230-9119.

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How do I sign up?

Beginning 8 a.m. March 1, 2010, you can reserve a rebate on the program’s Web site (www.mnappliancerebate.com) or call a program-specific phone number (1-877-230-9119).

You will need to know what category of appliance (i.e. refrigerator) you will be purchasing.

If funds are available in the category you’ve selected, you will print submission forms (including proof of recycling forms if you’re purchasing a refrigerator or freezer and would like to get the full rebate amount), which carry your unique submission code.

You will have 30 days to purchase, recycle and submit the application forms by mail. Thirty days will be determined by postmark date of forms mailed.

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How long does the program run?

The rebate program will run until March 31, 2010, or until funds are exhausted.

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What if rebate funds run out for the appliance category I want to buy?

A limited amount of people will be placed on a waiting list, by appliance category (i.e. clothes washers).

People placed on the waiting list will need to make a purchase and submit rebate forms as well and could receive a rebate, should another person with a rebate reservation not submit their forms within 30 days or submit forms with an egregious error. Rebates will be awarded to those on the waiting list who’s forms have been received on first-come, first-served system.

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Can I get a rebate on a previous appliance purchase?

No, rebates won’t apply to purchases made previous to March 1.

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Is there a limit of rebates per household?

Yes. Rebates are limited to one per household.

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Can I get these rebates in conjunction with rebates from my utility/municipality?

Yes. Rebates can be received in addition to any other incentives being offered. See the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency for additional rebates offered in Minnesota.

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Can renters/rental property owners receive a rebate?

No. Only residential homeowners will qualify for a rebate. Commercial use won’t qualify for the program. See the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency for additional rebates offered for multihousing properties and commercial applications in Minnesota.

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Do I have to turn in my old appliance to be eligible for a rebate?

You will be asked to self-certify the recycling of your old washer or dishwasher according to state laws and regulations. Customers who properly recycle refrigerators and freezers can double their rebates from $100 and $50, respectively, to $200 and $100.

The program was designed to take older, inefficient appliances off the energy grid.

Plus, old refrigerators cost A LOT of money to run, so it’s probably not worth it to your energy bill and your conscience.

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Why can’t I get a rebate for buying a new dryer or stove?

Currently, Energy Star only rates refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, clothes washers, dehumidifiers, air purifiers and water coolers. Appliance categories such as dryers don’t vary significantly enough from one to another in energy use to be differentiated.

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Where can I buy an appliance to get my rebate?

You must purchase from a Minnesota retailer to qualify for a rebate.

We think you should buy from Warners’ Stellian.

The rebate program is designed to stimulate the local industry. Purchasing from a locally owned, independent retailer such as Warners’ Stellian ensures the most of your dollar stays within the state:

When you spend $1 at a local independent, an average of 68 cents is recirculated into the local economy. In contrast, when you spend $1 at a national chain, only about 43 cents stays at home. If Twin Cities consumers shift even 10% of their spending from chains to locals for one day, the Twin Cities economy gains some $2 million.

We are also an official program partner organization with an expert knowledge of the program. We’ll make the process painless for you.

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Do you haul away/recycle my old appliances?

Yes. We always recycle appliances one-for-one with minimum purchase ($499), and we’ll make the delivery, installation and recycling (or “demanufacturing”) process painless for you. You can trust our professional crews in your own home.

Make sure to keep your proof of demanufacturing form for our delivery crew to sign at time of delivery.

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How long will it take to get my rebate?

You will receive a check by mail within approximately 30 days after your rebate submission forms are received.

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Why are two rebate amounts listed under refrigerators and freezers?

The “proof of demanufacturing” is required to earn 100% of the rebate on either of these two appliances and can be signed by any party picking up an appliance who certifies that it will be taken off the grid and turned over to an appropriate recycler ensuring the appliance will be fully decommissioned and the CFCs recycled.

This is to incent consumers to turn over their old working refrigerator or freezer instead of keeping it or reselling it.

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Will retailers have the forms I need?

No. Retailers can’t print or fill out any forms for you because your rebate reservation carries a unique submission code.

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Who is administering these rebates?

The program, part of the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, is run on the state level by the Office of Energy Security.

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Do you want to save some money on your energy bills?  Have you ever thought about putting a skylight in a dark area or part of your building?  Well, this is an excellent idea because you can have the natural light of the sun shine through rather then having lights on for a long period of time. This will reduce your electricity bill and you’re also considering the environment! 

You can install solar tubes, also known as sun tunnels which are very popular and easily retrofitted into new or existing buildings.  Depending on the Energy Star rated system you decide to go with, it may qualify for a federal tax incentive up to 30% of the cost. As well as, local and state incentives may also apply.  Basically, the way electricity works is with every flick of the switch, electricity is typically generated by burning fossil fuels, and pollution, as well as greenhouse gases are released.  By utilizing the power of the sun to lower electricity usage, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint and help clear the air.  “Like skylights, solar tubes bring natural daylight into interior rooms. Unlike skylights, solar tubes are inexpensive and unlikely to experience problems like rain leaks, heat loss, condensation or overheating, and are relatively easy to retrofit into an existing house. A solar tube consists of a clear dome that collects sunlight into a highly polished and reflective tube that reflects the light down to a diffuser on the ceiling. The light has a natural quality and is sufficient to light a small room, hallway or staircase” reports Portland’s Office of Sustainable Development. 

For larger rooms, larger solar tubes or multiple units may be necessary.  Options for solar tubes include: diffusers, night time lighting, daylight dimmers and integrated bathroom fans. 

With a super energy-efficient solar tube, you can qualify for a federal tax credit, especially if it has a V-factor and solar heat gain coefficient less than or equal to .30 and it is installed between these dates: June 1, 2009 – December 31, 2010.

For more information on energy-efficient solar tubes, please visit: www.greenstrides.com   Also, please visit: www.norsteel.com for options on skylights.

Sorry, but I wasn’t able to insert my images on here as jpg documents, but instead I inserted them as links that go to pdf files.

water heating

lights

Here are a few reference links for more material on the subject.

Water Heating:

• http://www1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/tips/water_heating.html
• http://www.aceee.org/Consumerguide/waterheating.htm
• http://www.tanklesswaterheaterguide.com/
• http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/water_heating/index.cfm/mytopic=12770

Lighting:

• http://www.facilitiesnet.com/energyefficiency/article/Balancing-Lighting-Quality-With-Energy-Efficiency–10277
• http://www.gelighting.com/na/business_lighting/education_resources/learn_about_light/light_quality.htm
• http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/lighting_daylighting/index.cfm/mytopic=11990
• http://home.howstuffworks.com/fluorescent-lamp.htm

Environmental Focus

In the market for an energy-efficient car or washer? Renovating your house? You could qualify for federal tax credits or a rebate to help fund your purchase.

• Existing homes: 30 percent tax credit (up to $1,500 through 2010) for energy-efficient windows, insulation, doors, roofs and heating and cooling equipment.
• Existing homes and new construction: 30 percent tax credit (no limit through 2016), for qualifying geothermal heat pumps, solar panels, solar water heaters, small wind energy systems and fuel cells.
• Tax credit for select hybrid vehicles, including gasoline-electric, diesel, battery-electric, alternative fuel, fuel cell and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Tax credits for plug-ins range from $2,500 to $7,500; tax credits for all other vehicle types are based on a formula determined by vehicle weight, technology and fuel economy.

Consumers must claim the tax credit on their 2009 taxes; use 2009 IRS Form 5695. Stay tuned for additional financial incentives from the state. Virginia launched two rebate programs in 2009 — Virginia Energy Efficiency Appliance Rebate and Virginia Renewable Energy Rebate — and will offer both programs again; no timeline has been set. For more information:

• American Council for an Energy- Efficient Economy (www.aceee.org/consumer/) — quick reference on available incentives.
• Tax Incentives Assistance Project (www.energytaxincentives.org) — updates on federal tax credits.
• Environmental Protection Agency ENERGY STAR® Program (www. energystar.gov/taxcredits) — federal tax credits and IRS guidance.
• Alliance to Save Energy (www.ase.org) — information on tax credits.
• Renew Virginia (www.governor. virginia.gov) — updates on Virginia rebates.
• Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (www.dsireusa.org) — rebates available in Virginia.