The document discusses programs from the Green Communities Division of Massachusetts that help municipalities transition to cleaner energy. It outlines regional coordinators who assist cities and towns, programs that provide grants, technical assistance and tools for energy efficiency and renewable projects. It highlights the Green Communities Designation program which provides grants from $130k to $1M upon municipalities meeting clean energy criteria like adopting building codes and renewable siting policies. To date, over $21M in grants have been awarded to 110 communities for projects achieving over $2M in annual energy savings.
The Olmsted County Solar Initiative aims to install solar panels at Mayo High School through community fundraising efforts. The 6kW photovoltaic system would offset carbon emissions and educate students on green energy. Funding would come from donations from high schools, local businesses, foundations and community members. Over 30 years, the solar panels are expected to generate 183,000 kWh of energy and offset 3,660,000 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions, while educating generations of students.
Fighting for a green future in communities of color finalAlexis Cureton
This document discusses the need to promote solar energy in communities of color by addressing misinformation, lobbying power imbalances, and lack of diversity in the solar industry. It recommends ways the Solar Energy Industries Association can help, such as partnering with historically black colleges and universities, placing op-eds in publications targeting communities of color, and continuing to engage community leaders. The goal is to ensure communities of all backgrounds and incomes benefit from the transition to clean energy.
OU Seeks to Cut Energy Costs for Schools and Shulsouadvocacy
OU Advocacy has launched initiatives in New York and nationwide to help schools and synagogues reduce rising energy costs. In New York, the Energy Parity Act would give private schools access to the same energy efficiency programs and discounts that public schools receive from the New York Power Authority. Nationwide, the Nonprofit Energy Efficiency Act would establish a grant program through the Department of Energy to help nonprofit organizations make their buildings more energy efficient through upgrades. The bills could significantly reduce utility bills for many Jewish institutions.
Does Your Neighbor Know that Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy are Really ...Leslie Martel Baer
The reality is that, in communities like Pueblo, Colorado, energy efficiency and renewable energy offer enormous economic opportunity--to the municipality, to local businesses and national businesses with a local presence, to K-12 schools and to institutions of higher education, and to the members of the community themselves. The challenge is that, to most of mainstream America, these industries and their technologies remain largely opaque. From what the technologies are and how they can benefit, to how to finance them and measure their performance, EE and RE remain largely a mystery. How industry groups, business and--especially--public officials educate their stakeholders and constituents about the opportunity that lies within the EE and RE industries will determine the extent to which mainstream America can truly benefit from them and leverage their value.
Lauren "Bubba" McDonald: The Lazy, Unethical, Liberal Incumbentgapol_tipline
Lauren "Bubba" McDonald is a longtime incumbent Public Service Commissioner running for re-election. The document criticizes McDonald, saying he supports raising electricity prices and mandating green energy despite rarely attending work. It alleges McDonald has close ties to lobbyists and Democrats despite running as a Republican, and questions his ethics and record on issues like campaign disclosures.
The document discusses programs from the Green Communities Division of Massachusetts that help municipalities transition to cleaner energy. It outlines regional coordinators who assist cities and towns, programs that provide grants, technical assistance and tools for energy efficiency and renewable projects. It highlights the Green Communities Designation program which provides grants from $130k to $1M upon municipalities meeting clean energy criteria like adopting building codes and renewable siting policies. To date, over $21M in grants have been awarded to 110 communities for projects achieving over $2M in annual energy savings.
The Olmsted County Solar Initiative aims to install solar panels at Mayo High School through community fundraising efforts. The 6kW photovoltaic system would offset carbon emissions and educate students on green energy. Funding would come from donations from high schools, local businesses, foundations and community members. Over 30 years, the solar panels are expected to generate 183,000 kWh of energy and offset 3,660,000 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions, while educating generations of students.
Fighting for a green future in communities of color finalAlexis Cureton
This document discusses the need to promote solar energy in communities of color by addressing misinformation, lobbying power imbalances, and lack of diversity in the solar industry. It recommends ways the Solar Energy Industries Association can help, such as partnering with historically black colleges and universities, placing op-eds in publications targeting communities of color, and continuing to engage community leaders. The goal is to ensure communities of all backgrounds and incomes benefit from the transition to clean energy.
OU Seeks to Cut Energy Costs for Schools and Shulsouadvocacy
OU Advocacy has launched initiatives in New York and nationwide to help schools and synagogues reduce rising energy costs. In New York, the Energy Parity Act would give private schools access to the same energy efficiency programs and discounts that public schools receive from the New York Power Authority. Nationwide, the Nonprofit Energy Efficiency Act would establish a grant program through the Department of Energy to help nonprofit organizations make their buildings more energy efficient through upgrades. The bills could significantly reduce utility bills for many Jewish institutions.
Does Your Neighbor Know that Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy are Really ...Leslie Martel Baer
The reality is that, in communities like Pueblo, Colorado, energy efficiency and renewable energy offer enormous economic opportunity--to the municipality, to local businesses and national businesses with a local presence, to K-12 schools and to institutions of higher education, and to the members of the community themselves. The challenge is that, to most of mainstream America, these industries and their technologies remain largely opaque. From what the technologies are and how they can benefit, to how to finance them and measure their performance, EE and RE remain largely a mystery. How industry groups, business and--especially--public officials educate their stakeholders and constituents about the opportunity that lies within the EE and RE industries will determine the extent to which mainstream America can truly benefit from them and leverage their value.
Lauren "Bubba" McDonald: The Lazy, Unethical, Liberal Incumbentgapol_tipline
Lauren "Bubba" McDonald is a longtime incumbent Public Service Commissioner running for re-election. The document criticizes McDonald, saying he supports raising electricity prices and mandating green energy despite rarely attending work. It alleges McDonald has close ties to lobbyists and Democrats despite running as a Republican, and questions his ethics and record on issues like campaign disclosures.
Presentation from the Alliance to Save Energy's 2010 Great Energy Efficiency Day, which took place on March 10, 2010 in the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC.
Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance OverviewGreaterCEA
The Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance is a non-profit organization formed in 2008 that provides energy efficiency and renewable energy services, education, and project management across seven local governments in Ohio and Kentucky. It partners with local foundations, governments, colleges, and utilities to offer residential home energy audits and financing for upgrades, as well as work with non-profit organizations. Contact information is provided for the executive director.
Bonnie Christie: "How the Ten Towns, Ten Actions Toolkit Came to Be"Cindy Heath
This document summarizes the journey of creating the Ten Towns, Ten Actions Toolkit to address plastic pollution. It began when the author learned of a whale that died from plastic ingestion. This raised awareness of the connection between local plastic use and ocean pollution. Over five years, the author engaged in various actions like community conversations, supporting legislation, and coalition building to address plastic reduction. These initial efforts failed to create change. The author then developed the Ten Towns, Ten Actions Toolkit to share successful strategies from different New Hampshire communities, providing a guide for grassroots action against plastic pollution.
FINAL New Haven Post-Canvassing Kickoff Release 7 22 15Jasmin Golding
The New Haven Youth Conservation Corps kicked off an energy-saving initiative at New Haven City Hall. The initiative involves canvassers targeting 10,000 households in New Haven neighborhoods to promote the benefits of the Home Energy Solutions - Income Eligible program. This no-cost program performs energy assessments to identify improvements that make homes more energy efficient and lower monthly costs. The Youth Conservation Corps will work with program vendors over the summer to spread information about energy saving options.
EnAct is a free sustainable living program that encourages individuals to conserve energy, waste less, save water, drive less, eat well, and build community. The program is run by Madison Environmental Group and offers a free conservation kit to those who fill out a 10 minute survey. On average, households save $393 per year through participating in simple sustainable living steps together through EnAct.
Solar Growth - Needham Rotary PresentationRob Greer
This document discusses the rapid growth of solar power in one town. It has grown due to declining prices, improving technology, generous incentives, and more competition among solar installers. The town has used the "Solarize" model, where groups of residents adopt solar together to get discounted pricing. This has doubled the number of solar projects. Homeowners can save money by getting a 30% federal tax credit and paying lower electricity costs from solar. The future expects standards, not just new technologies, to integrate solar into electric grids more.
The document discusses strategies for creating an inclusive green economy through clean energy initiatives. It describes Clean Energy Works Portland, which aims to improve the energy efficiency of 100,000 homes and create 10,000 jobs over 10 years. It also discusses opportunities in urban manufacturing of green technology, restructuring waste and recycling into a greener industry, and the role foundations can play in supporting a green economy through career training and strategic investments.
Study: Utility Sector - Canada - Power Generation - May 14, 2017paul young cpa, cga
This presentation looks at power generation in Canada. The area of focus is renewable energy and also side effects to hydro projects on the overall environment.
Social Electricity: Energy Awareness through Social ComparisonsAndreas Kamilaris
Social Electricity is a Facebook application that aims to make citizens aware of their electrical energy consumption, by means of comparisons with the corresponding electrical consumption of their friends, as well as with the total consumption in the street / neighbourhood / village / city / country where they live. By effective and realistic comparisons, the consumers may perceive their energy behaviour and take steps to reduce their electricity and carbon footprint. Moreover, people may view statistics concerning the areas with the least/most energy consumption in their neighborhood, province or even the whole of Cyprus.
These slides have been presented by Andreas Kamilaris during the 2nd ITU Green Standards Week, in Paris, France, on 19 September 2012, in an award ceremony for the best and most innovative Concept Paper for a “Sustainable Energy for All” ICT application. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs).
Social Electricity presents high interest due to its innovation, usefulness and smart design. It constitutes a research project of the Computer Science Department, University of Cyprus, in collaboration with the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC), aiming to motivate people to become more aware of their electricity consumption. Social Electricity is an innovative initiative worldwide and has recently been awarded the first prize in the 2nd ITU Green ICT Application Challenge (http://www.itu.int/ITU-T/climatechange/greenict/201206/index.html).
Social Electricity is available at the link http://apps.facebook.com/socialelectricity/. You must have a Facebook account in order to use it and register a valid P.O. code in Cyprus (4-digit codes like 2302). You can LIKE our FB page to be informed about latest news of the project (https://www.facebook.com/SocialElectricity).
The document discusses a marketing campaign called Energy Impact Illinois that was launched to encourage homeowners to improve their home's energy efficiency. The campaign personified energy bills as "Big Bill", who represents wasteful and inefficient energy use, and "Little Bill", who represents responsible energy use. By creating this humorous odd couple, the campaign aimed to motivate homeowners to make energy efficient updates to lower their energy costs and avoid receiving a large "Big Bill".
This document summarizes the outcomes of an energy efficiency project for low-income households in Tasmania. It finds that a direct home visit approach that provided home upgrades and education led to average energy savings of 1.4 kWh/day, while an approach combining home visits and community capacity building led to average savings of 2.8 kWh/day. Both approaches increased the time households spent in their comfort zone. The study provided insights into the critical influences on household energy use, such as energy-cost tradeoffs, housing quality issues, and lifestyle factors. It recommends future programs take a long-term, mixed approach combining home upgrades and modified community engagement.
This document summarizes the benefits of rural electrification in developing countries. It discusses how rural electrification can provide lighting, which allows for increased study time for children, extended business hours, and greater security. Electricity is mainly used for lighting and TV in rural homes. Electrification can improve health by reducing indoor air pollution and increasing knowledge. It also leads to increased productivity from home businesses and agriculture. However, the poorest households often cannot afford the initial connection fee to access electricity from the grid. Off-grid renewable solutions provide alternatives but have limitations. Overall, rural electrification provides many social and economic benefits, but access barriers remain for the poorest populations.
1) Legislation was proposed that would dramatically reduce compensation for existing customers with solar energy systems and jeopardize billions of dollars in public and private investments in solar.
2) The legislation was amended to change the way Net Energy Metering projects are compensated after 2017, reducing payments to existing customers for the electricity they generate.
3) Critics say the amendment amounts to a "bait and switch" that will discourage further investments in solar energy.
Denton Municipal Electric has negotiated an agreement to purchase up to 60 MW of renewable energy from NextEra Energy Power Marketing, LLC, constituting over 40% of DME's energy portfolio. This makes Denton's renewable energy usage the highest among Texas cities served by public utilities, ahead of Austin and San Antonio. The renewable energy will come from NextEra's Wolf Ridge Wind Farm and allows Denton citizens, businesses, and facilities to benefit from green energy while providing economic and development opportunities for the city.
The document summarizes the Sustainable Energy Program of the Washington State Housing Finance Commission. It discusses how the Commission uses bond financing tools to support energy efficiency and renewable energy projects for multifamily housing, non-profits, and private businesses. It provides examples of projects that received financing, and notes that the Commission has been recognized as a best practice for aggregating and issuing Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds. It also describes the Sustainable Energy Trust program which provides loans and incentives to improve home energy efficiency.
Presentation to the Oakland Realtors AssociationSmaart House
1. The document discusses how investments in solar energy and energy efficiency can impact home values and the real estate business. It summarizes findings from a study that found homes fitted with solar energy systems sell at a premium of $3.90 to $6.40 per watt of solar capacity and sell faster than comparable homes without solar.
2. The document then provides information on energy use trends and costs in California and the US. It notes that electricity prices are rising faster than income growth, causing energy costs to consume a larger portion of household budgets and driving consumer interest in solar energy.
3. The document concludes by discussing approaches to valuing solar energy systems when selling a home and factors to consider when transferring solar le
Achieving energy security through distributed generation. Achieving distributed generation through rapid deployment of renewable energy technologies using the most successful policy mechanism in the world - production based incentives.
This document summarizes Massachusetts' efforts to help municipalities create a greener energy future through programs like the Green Communities Act. It describes the Green Communities Division's role in supporting cities and towns with programs like MassEnergyInsight, Green Communities grants, energy audits, and technical assistance. It also provides an overview of the Green Communities designation and grant application process and criteria.
Many local markets in Michigan present significant opportunities for solar photovoltaic development due to high electricity rates. The presentation will cover the basics of going solar on your own property, and the future of solar in the regional energy mix.
Sponsored By:
Western Upper Peninsula Center for Science, Mathematics and Environmental Education, Michigan Tech Center for Science Outreach
Cosponsored by:
Lake Superior Stewardship Initiative, Michigan Tech Center for Water & Society, Keweenaw Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, and Keweenaw Land Trust
Presentation from the Alliance to Save Energy's 2010 Great Energy Efficiency Day, which took place on March 10, 2010 in the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC.
Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance OverviewGreaterCEA
The Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance is a non-profit organization formed in 2008 that provides energy efficiency and renewable energy services, education, and project management across seven local governments in Ohio and Kentucky. It partners with local foundations, governments, colleges, and utilities to offer residential home energy audits and financing for upgrades, as well as work with non-profit organizations. Contact information is provided for the executive director.
Bonnie Christie: "How the Ten Towns, Ten Actions Toolkit Came to Be"Cindy Heath
This document summarizes the journey of creating the Ten Towns, Ten Actions Toolkit to address plastic pollution. It began when the author learned of a whale that died from plastic ingestion. This raised awareness of the connection between local plastic use and ocean pollution. Over five years, the author engaged in various actions like community conversations, supporting legislation, and coalition building to address plastic reduction. These initial efforts failed to create change. The author then developed the Ten Towns, Ten Actions Toolkit to share successful strategies from different New Hampshire communities, providing a guide for grassroots action against plastic pollution.
FINAL New Haven Post-Canvassing Kickoff Release 7 22 15Jasmin Golding
The New Haven Youth Conservation Corps kicked off an energy-saving initiative at New Haven City Hall. The initiative involves canvassers targeting 10,000 households in New Haven neighborhoods to promote the benefits of the Home Energy Solutions - Income Eligible program. This no-cost program performs energy assessments to identify improvements that make homes more energy efficient and lower monthly costs. The Youth Conservation Corps will work with program vendors over the summer to spread information about energy saving options.
EnAct is a free sustainable living program that encourages individuals to conserve energy, waste less, save water, drive less, eat well, and build community. The program is run by Madison Environmental Group and offers a free conservation kit to those who fill out a 10 minute survey. On average, households save $393 per year through participating in simple sustainable living steps together through EnAct.
Solar Growth - Needham Rotary PresentationRob Greer
This document discusses the rapid growth of solar power in one town. It has grown due to declining prices, improving technology, generous incentives, and more competition among solar installers. The town has used the "Solarize" model, where groups of residents adopt solar together to get discounted pricing. This has doubled the number of solar projects. Homeowners can save money by getting a 30% federal tax credit and paying lower electricity costs from solar. The future expects standards, not just new technologies, to integrate solar into electric grids more.
The document discusses strategies for creating an inclusive green economy through clean energy initiatives. It describes Clean Energy Works Portland, which aims to improve the energy efficiency of 100,000 homes and create 10,000 jobs over 10 years. It also discusses opportunities in urban manufacturing of green technology, restructuring waste and recycling into a greener industry, and the role foundations can play in supporting a green economy through career training and strategic investments.
Study: Utility Sector - Canada - Power Generation - May 14, 2017paul young cpa, cga
This presentation looks at power generation in Canada. The area of focus is renewable energy and also side effects to hydro projects on the overall environment.
Social Electricity: Energy Awareness through Social ComparisonsAndreas Kamilaris
Social Electricity is a Facebook application that aims to make citizens aware of their electrical energy consumption, by means of comparisons with the corresponding electrical consumption of their friends, as well as with the total consumption in the street / neighbourhood / village / city / country where they live. By effective and realistic comparisons, the consumers may perceive their energy behaviour and take steps to reduce their electricity and carbon footprint. Moreover, people may view statistics concerning the areas with the least/most energy consumption in their neighborhood, province or even the whole of Cyprus.
These slides have been presented by Andreas Kamilaris during the 2nd ITU Green Standards Week, in Paris, France, on 19 September 2012, in an award ceremony for the best and most innovative Concept Paper for a “Sustainable Energy for All” ICT application. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs).
Social Electricity presents high interest due to its innovation, usefulness and smart design. It constitutes a research project of the Computer Science Department, University of Cyprus, in collaboration with the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC), aiming to motivate people to become more aware of their electricity consumption. Social Electricity is an innovative initiative worldwide and has recently been awarded the first prize in the 2nd ITU Green ICT Application Challenge (http://www.itu.int/ITU-T/climatechange/greenict/201206/index.html).
Social Electricity is available at the link http://apps.facebook.com/socialelectricity/. You must have a Facebook account in order to use it and register a valid P.O. code in Cyprus (4-digit codes like 2302). You can LIKE our FB page to be informed about latest news of the project (https://www.facebook.com/SocialElectricity).
The document discusses a marketing campaign called Energy Impact Illinois that was launched to encourage homeowners to improve their home's energy efficiency. The campaign personified energy bills as "Big Bill", who represents wasteful and inefficient energy use, and "Little Bill", who represents responsible energy use. By creating this humorous odd couple, the campaign aimed to motivate homeowners to make energy efficient updates to lower their energy costs and avoid receiving a large "Big Bill".
This document summarizes the outcomes of an energy efficiency project for low-income households in Tasmania. It finds that a direct home visit approach that provided home upgrades and education led to average energy savings of 1.4 kWh/day, while an approach combining home visits and community capacity building led to average savings of 2.8 kWh/day. Both approaches increased the time households spent in their comfort zone. The study provided insights into the critical influences on household energy use, such as energy-cost tradeoffs, housing quality issues, and lifestyle factors. It recommends future programs take a long-term, mixed approach combining home upgrades and modified community engagement.
This document summarizes the benefits of rural electrification in developing countries. It discusses how rural electrification can provide lighting, which allows for increased study time for children, extended business hours, and greater security. Electricity is mainly used for lighting and TV in rural homes. Electrification can improve health by reducing indoor air pollution and increasing knowledge. It also leads to increased productivity from home businesses and agriculture. However, the poorest households often cannot afford the initial connection fee to access electricity from the grid. Off-grid renewable solutions provide alternatives but have limitations. Overall, rural electrification provides many social and economic benefits, but access barriers remain for the poorest populations.
1) Legislation was proposed that would dramatically reduce compensation for existing customers with solar energy systems and jeopardize billions of dollars in public and private investments in solar.
2) The legislation was amended to change the way Net Energy Metering projects are compensated after 2017, reducing payments to existing customers for the electricity they generate.
3) Critics say the amendment amounts to a "bait and switch" that will discourage further investments in solar energy.
Denton Municipal Electric has negotiated an agreement to purchase up to 60 MW of renewable energy from NextEra Energy Power Marketing, LLC, constituting over 40% of DME's energy portfolio. This makes Denton's renewable energy usage the highest among Texas cities served by public utilities, ahead of Austin and San Antonio. The renewable energy will come from NextEra's Wolf Ridge Wind Farm and allows Denton citizens, businesses, and facilities to benefit from green energy while providing economic and development opportunities for the city.
The document summarizes the Sustainable Energy Program of the Washington State Housing Finance Commission. It discusses how the Commission uses bond financing tools to support energy efficiency and renewable energy projects for multifamily housing, non-profits, and private businesses. It provides examples of projects that received financing, and notes that the Commission has been recognized as a best practice for aggregating and issuing Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds. It also describes the Sustainable Energy Trust program which provides loans and incentives to improve home energy efficiency.
Presentation to the Oakland Realtors AssociationSmaart House
1. The document discusses how investments in solar energy and energy efficiency can impact home values and the real estate business. It summarizes findings from a study that found homes fitted with solar energy systems sell at a premium of $3.90 to $6.40 per watt of solar capacity and sell faster than comparable homes without solar.
2. The document then provides information on energy use trends and costs in California and the US. It notes that electricity prices are rising faster than income growth, causing energy costs to consume a larger portion of household budgets and driving consumer interest in solar energy.
3. The document concludes by discussing approaches to valuing solar energy systems when selling a home and factors to consider when transferring solar le
Achieving energy security through distributed generation. Achieving distributed generation through rapid deployment of renewable energy technologies using the most successful policy mechanism in the world - production based incentives.
This document summarizes Massachusetts' efforts to help municipalities create a greener energy future through programs like the Green Communities Act. It describes the Green Communities Division's role in supporting cities and towns with programs like MassEnergyInsight, Green Communities grants, energy audits, and technical assistance. It also provides an overview of the Green Communities designation and grant application process and criteria.
Many local markets in Michigan present significant opportunities for solar photovoltaic development due to high electricity rates. The presentation will cover the basics of going solar on your own property, and the future of solar in the regional energy mix.
Sponsored By:
Western Upper Peninsula Center for Science, Mathematics and Environmental Education, Michigan Tech Center for Science Outreach
Cosponsored by:
Lake Superior Stewardship Initiative, Michigan Tech Center for Water & Society, Keweenaw Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, and Keweenaw Land Trust
Investigating City Commitments to 100% Renewable EnergyTony G. Reames
A number of United States (U.S.) cities are proposing and implementing bold sustainable solutions in order to combat
the social, environmental, and economic impacts of climate change. Cities of all sizes around the country are taking
control by pledging to reach community-wide goals of 100% renewable energy. However, many of these cities are
unsure of how to meet these commitments. Although the renewable energy potential throughout the U.S. is strong,
cities are facing other types of challenges that are hindering their ability to progress swiftly to meet the commitment.
The document is a capstone project exploring consumer attitudes and actions regarding solar and wind energy adoption in Minnesota. It contains a literature review on previous research showing that environmental concern and economic motivations like reducing utility bills are top drivers for adoption, while high upfront costs and complexity are major barriers. The research also found that social learning from others who have adopted renewable energy can influence decisions. The project aims to understand Minnesota consumers and companies to help improve an online directory for finding solar and wind installers.
This document discusses Massachusetts' efforts to help municipalities create a cleaner energy future through various programs run by the state's Green Communities Division. It outlines legislation promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency. It describes the Green Communities designation and grant program that provides funds to municipalities meeting certain clean energy criteria. It also lists other programs and resources the division offers municipalities, and announces new grant opportunities and initiatives.
The document discusses programs and initiatives by the Massachusetts Green Communities Division to help municipalities transition to cleaner energy. It outlines grants for energy efficiency projects, solar installations, and hiring energy managers. Upcoming funding opportunities include grants for water/wastewater facilities and municipal light plants. The division also provides technical resources like model solar zoning regulations and an energy tracking tool to support municipalities' clean energy goals.
This presentation by Shane Stennes, Director of Sustainability at the University of Minnesota, was given at the MnSEIA Midwest Gateway to Solar Conference on Tuesday, November 14, 2017 and details solar installation and procurement across the organization.
This document discusses City Forest Credits, a nonprofit that issues carbon credits for urban forestry projects. It connects local tree planting and preservation efforts to funding through carbon offsets. Projects must be in or near cities and follow national carbon protocols. Examples are provided of projects in Pittsburgh, Chattanooga, and Des Moines that have increased tree canopy, protected forests, and launched job training programs. Planting projects receive carbon credits over 26 years as trees grow. Credits are verified and can be sold to provide funding for local tree organizations.
This document discusses using machine learning to inventory urban trees. It summarizes:
1) Machine learning uses aerial imagery and street view images to geo-locate tree canopies, estimate tree counts, estimate distances from observers, and identify individual tree locations.
2) A case study in San Diego found machine learning identified 26% more vacant sites than traditional surveys.
3) Machine learning provides advantages over traditional surveys by being more objective, repeatable, efficient and precise.
The document discusses the smart grid vision and its relationship to sustainability. It examines how different actors prioritize and frame smart grid technologies differently based on their institutional structures and priorities. The smart grid could help increase sustainability through both climate change mitigation and adaptation, but realizing its full potential will require aligning different perspectives on the scale and pace of energy system change.
The Youth Energy Summit (YES!) is a team-oriented program that uses hands-on learning and energy projects to address energy issues in rural Minnesota. Students learn about energy topics like science, math, and technology. They implement energy projects at their schools to save costs and resources. The program is run by the Southwest Initiative Foundation and other partners. It aims to connect students to energy career opportunities in their communities.
Jennifer Perry has over 20 years of experience in environmental education, sustainable agriculture, and community development. She currently serves as the Sustainable Communities Coordinator for the Adirondack North Country Association, where she manages regional sustainability projects and has helped secure over $3 million in grant funding. She also teaches a variety of sustainability courses as an adjunct instructor. In her previous roles, Perry has established farmers' markets, local food networks, and sustainability initiatives on college campuses. She holds a Master's degree in Environmental and Sustainability Studies and a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science.
The Center City Neighborhood Redevelopment and Sustainability Project is a long-term initiative to revitalize a 12-block area in Kansas City, Missouri through sustainable redevelopment and greening efforts. The project aims to plant urban orchards and rain gardens, build energy efficient homes, conduct energy audits, and encourage homeowners to participate in sustainability programs by 2013. These improvements will benefit the community by reducing costs, limiting impacts on infrastructure, and promoting public health and neighborhood engagement, which can help reduce crime. The project blends public, private, nonprofit, and corporate funding to achieve its green and sustainable redevelopment goals.
This document summarizes sustainability initiatives in Northfield, Minnesota. It discusses the city's engaged local government including an Environmental Quality Commission and task forces on non-motorized transportation and energy. It also mentions local sustainability organizations and the work of Carleton College and St. Olaf College to promote sustainability on their campuses and in the community. The document analyzes Northfield's participation in programs like Minnesota Green Step Cities and EPA's Community Climate Change Initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It provides an overview of transportation, local food, and energy efficiency options in Northfield to engage residents in sustainability.
Municipal energy efficiency projects save taxpayer dollars while engaging the community in sustainability efforts. A collaborative approach between the town government, local organizations, businesses, and residents can strengthen partnerships, increase understanding, and drive greater demand for energy efficiency through coordinated outreach and social norms. Challenges include managing expectations across diverse groups and maintaining effective communications, but data sharing and ensuring benefits are felt community-wide can help overcome barriers to progress.
This document discusses how Massachusetts municipalities can create a greener energy future through the state's Green Communities program. It outlines the program's goal of reducing municipal energy use by 20% within 5 years. It then provides examples of energy reduction projects undertaken in various municipalities, including buildings improvements in Harvard that achieved a 32% reduction, converting streetlights to LEDs in Easthampton for a 20% reduction, and installing variable speed drives for pumps in Athol's water and sewer system for a 6% reduction. The document discusses common challenges in achieving the 20% goal and ideas for overcoming issues with reducing vehicle and other energy uses.
City of Minneapolis: Sustainability VisionAmanda Bilek
This document provides an overview of energy use and sustainability efforts in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It summarizes that Minneapolis has a population of around 393,000, with 40% people of color. It owns the largest utility in the state and uses a mix of energy sources including coal, natural gas, and renewables. The city has set goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 15% by 2015 and 30% by 2025 from 2006 levels. It invests in solar installations and efficiency projects for city buildings. Programs also promote efficiency for businesses and residents. The document discusses potential pathways for improving city-utility partnerships through franchise agreements to jointly meet clean energy targets.
Similar to Community Energy Forum- Amir Nadav: How Community Actions Can Shape Our Energy Future (20)
The document summarizes a field study of 8 cold-climate air-source heat pumps (ccASHPs) installed in Minnesota homes. It found that the ccASHPs performed as expected for heating, with annual COPs lower than ratings due to auxiliary heat use. Flex fuel ccASHPs could heat below 5°F while all-electric systems could heat below -13°F. Installations of ccASHPs showed potential for 40-60% reductions in site energy use, emissions and costs compared to propane or electric resistance heating. The study demonstrated ccASHPs can provide beneficial electrification in Minnesota.
This document summarizes research on cold-climate air-source heat pumps conducted in Minnesota homes. Eight heat pumps were monitored, including six ducted whole-home systems and two ductless mini-split systems. The heat pumps performed well down to 5-10 degrees Fahrenheit for ducted systems and below -13F for ductless. Annual COPs were 1.2-2.1, providing energy savings of 40-60% compared to electric resistance or propane heating. Paybacks were estimated at 6 years or less when paired with replacing an existing heating or cooling system. Further research is needed to optimize controls and expand applications to multifamily buildings.
The Center for Energy and Environment (CEE) provided information to the House Energy and Climate Finance and Policy Committee. CEE takes a data-driven, community-based, and consumer-focused approach to reducing energy waste through programs, services, policy work, and technical research. CEE has award-winning efficiency programs across Minnesota that have saved customers over $7.3 million annually in one representative's district. CEE advocates for legislative initiatives that integrate efficient fuel switching, demand response, and a clean energy first approach into Minnesota's conservation programs.
The document discusses achieving a healthy low-carbon economy in Minnesota. It identifies three keys: maximizing energy efficiency, decarbonizing electricity supply by retiring coal and other high-carbon plants, and strategic electrification of parts of the economy like transportation and buildings. Maximizing efficiency can save significant amounts of energy and avoid infrastructure costs. Decarbonizing electricity supply is critical as over 95% of the state's power sector emissions come from plants that will retire in the next 20 years. Strategic electrification technologies like heat pumps, electric vehicles, and buses can reduce emissions if deployed in a way that reduces energy use and costs and does not excessively increase peak demand.
This document summarizes a field study of 8 cold-climate air-source heat pumps (ccASHPs) installed in Minnesota homes. 6 units were ducted whole-home systems while 2 were ductless mini-splits. Instrumentation monitored performance of the heat pumps and backup systems. Results found ducted units could provide heat down to 5-10°F while ductless units operated below -13°F. Ducted flexible fuel ccASHPs improved annual COP to 1.3 and reduced propane use by 60% compared to condensing furnaces. Ductless ccASHPs achieved annual COPs of 2.1, reducing energy and costs by 55% versus electric resistance heat. The study concluded
This document summarizes research on the cost effectiveness of condensing boilers. Field research was conducted on existing condensing boilers, which found average efficiencies of 90%. Retrocommissioning actions like lowering supply temperatures and adjusting reset curves improved efficiencies by 1-3%. On average, condensing boilers provided 13% annual savings over standard boilers. The average price difference of $2,300 between condensing and standard boilers means condensing boilers have a simple 25-year payback and are cost effective over the lifetime of the unit, with a path to a 10-year payback.
This document summarizes the results of a pilot program that provided commercial energy code compliance services through plan review and design team support. The program worked with cities and design teams on several commercial building projects. It found that targeted tools and building-specific assistance helped capture energy savings cost-effectively. Providing support to city reviewers also had more success recruiting participants with lower marketing costs. Overall, the pilot demonstrated significant potential for energy savings through improved commercial building energy code compliance.
Leveraging existing home inspections at time-of-sale to promote energy upgrades. Presentation given at ACEEE 2018 Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Buildings.
Here are some key considerations for utility EV charging programs based on the discussion:
- A single network provider can simplify program administration and enable integrated demand response capabilities across different charging locations and hardware options. However, it may limit customer choice.
- Make-ready incentives and rebates with multiple qualified network providers gives more customer choice but makes demand response coordination challenging if networks are not interoperable.
- Utility ownership of charging infrastructure allows more direct control over demand response but may require larger upfront investment compared to make-ready incentives.
- Analyzing customized charging data from a single network can provide valuable insights for utilities to better understand customer needs and charging behaviors.
This document summarizes the results of a field study evaluating the performance of transport membrane humidifiers (TMHs) retrofitted to standard efficiency furnaces. The study found that TMHs increased furnace efficiency by 9% for space heating and humidification by adding over 10,500 BTUs per hour. TMHs also improved indoor humidity levels during cold weather without risk of over-humidification. Total installed costs for TMHs were estimated between $1,400-$1,900 with payback periods of 3.9-17.3 years depending on location and energy savings from both heating and humidification. The document concludes that TMHs are a cost-effective alternative to upgrading older furnaces but challenges remain in commercializing the
This document summarizes research on automated house sealing using aerosolized sealants. Key points:
- Air sealing homes can reduce energy use by 30% by reducing air leakage. Aerosol sealing provides an effective way to thoroughly seal homes.
- Field tests with builders showed aerosol sealing reliably achieved tightness standards, reducing leakage by 54-95% in new construction and 39-88% in existing homes.
- Two sealing options were evaluated: sealing after or before insulation. Both reduced leakage by 70-75% but sealing before insulation allowed sealing of more areas.
- The research aims to integrate aerosol sealing into standard construction practices to lower costs and improve performance of home tight
This webinar summarized a research project that evaluated the effectiveness of demand control recirculation systems in commercial hot water applications. Demand control systems use sensors and controls to reduce hot water recirculation pump runtime when hot water is not being used. The project monitored 6 sites before and after installing demand control systems. On average, the systems reduced thermal energy use by 14-18% and pump electricity use by 70-96%, saving $125-1356 per year depending on the site. The simple payback for the control systems was 1-2 years for larger sites and 10-20 years for smaller sites.
Energy Fit Homes is a certificate program administered by the Center for Energy and Environment, designed specifically for existing homes in Minnesota and is focused exclusively on energy efficient upgrades that are cost-effective to the homeowner.
The presentation includes background information on building science and the benefits of Energy Fit Homes for both homeowners and Realtors®. Real estate professionals who attended the presentation received the tools needed to start integrating the program into their Realtor® client services.
This webinar discussed research into optimizing the operation of indoor public pool facilities in Minnesota to save energy. The research characterized over 2,000 indoor pools statewide, conducted in-depth evaluations at 6 sites, and identified key savings opportunities. Statewide, HVAC control upgrades had the largest potential savings. Operational improvements like adjusting temperature and humidity setpoints and installing pool covers could also significantly reduce energy use. The webinar provided recommendations for utility programs and introduced guides developed for pool operators and recommissioning providers.
There’s growing awareness that perhaps the only practical pathway to achieving Minnesota’s deep decarbonization goal is through a combination of steps.
Research lead discusses how new generation air source heat pumps perform in Minnesota’s colder climate, how to best integrate air source heat pumps into utility efficiency programs, and how this new technology has the potential to create new business opportunities in the building and design world.
Research identifying common issues affecting the effectiveness of Energy Recovery Ventilation in Minnesota buildings and developing a protocol to optimize their performance.
Webinar sharing report findings including aerosol sealing cost-effectiveness in multifamily buildings and recommendations on how utilities and contractors can take advantage of this new sealing application.
Evolving Lifecycles with High Resolution Site Characterization (HRSC) and 3-D...Joshua Orris
The incorporation of a 3DCSM and completion of HRSC provided a tool for enhanced, data-driven, decisions to support a change in remediation closure strategies. Currently, an approved pilot study has been obtained to shut-down the remediation systems (ISCO, P&T) and conduct a hydraulic study under non-pumping conditions. A separate micro-biological bench scale treatability study was competed that yielded positive results for an emerging innovative technology. As a result, a field pilot study has commenced with results expected in nine-twelve months. With the results of the hydraulic study, field pilot studies and an updated risk assessment leading site monitoring optimization cost lifecycle savings upwards of $15MM towards an alternatively evolved best available technology remediation closure strategy.
Kinetic studies on malachite green dye adsorption from aqueous solutions by A...Open Access Research Paper
Water polluted by dyestuffs compounds is a global threat to health and the environment; accordingly, we prepared a green novel sorbent chemical and Physical system from an algae, chitosan and chitosan nanoparticle and impregnated with algae with chitosan nanocomposite for the sorption of Malachite green dye from water. The algae with chitosan nanocomposite by a simple method and used as a recyclable and effective adsorbent for the removal of malachite green dye from aqueous solutions. Algae, chitosan, chitosan nanoparticle and algae with chitosan nanocomposite were characterized using different physicochemical methods. The functional groups and chemical compounds found in algae, chitosan, chitosan algae, chitosan nanoparticle, and chitosan nanoparticle with algae were identified using FTIR, SEM, and TGADTA/DTG techniques. The optimal adsorption conditions, different dosages, pH and Temperature the amount of algae with chitosan nanocomposite were determined. At optimized conditions and the batch equilibrium studies more than 99% of the dye was removed. The adsorption process data matched well kinetics showed that the reaction order for dye varied with pseudo-first order and pseudo-second order. Furthermore, the maximum adsorption capacity of the algae with chitosan nanocomposite toward malachite green dye reached as high as 15.5mg/g, respectively. Finally, multiple times reusing of algae with chitosan nanocomposite and removing dye from a real wastewater has made it a promising and attractive option for further practical applications.
ENVIRONMENT~ Renewable Energy Sources and their future prospects.tiwarimanvi3129
This presentation is for us to know that how our Environment need Attention for protection of our natural resources which are depleted day by day that's why we need to take time and shift our attention to renewable energy sources instead of non-renewable sources which are better and Eco-friendly for our environment. these renewable energy sources are so helpful for our planet and for every living organism which depends on environment.
Climate Change All over the World .pptxsairaanwer024
Climate change refers to significant and lasting changes in the average weather patterns over periods ranging from decades to millions of years. It encompasses both global warming driven by human emissions of greenhouse gases and the resulting large-scale shifts in weather patterns. While climate change is a natural phenomenon, human activities, particularly since the Industrial Revolution, have accelerated its pace and intensity
Epcon is One of the World's leading Manufacturing Companies.EpconLP
Epcon is One of the World's leading Manufacturing Companies. With over 4000 installations worldwide, EPCON has been pioneering new techniques since 1977 that have become industry standards now. Founded in 1977, Epcon has grown from a one-man operation to a global leader in developing and manufacturing innovative air pollution control technology and industrial heating equipment.
Optimizing Post Remediation Groundwater Performance with Enhanced Microbiolog...Joshua Orris
Results of geophysics and pneumatic injection pilot tests during 2003 – 2007 yielded significant positive results for injection delivery design and contaminant mass treatment, resulting in permanent shut-down of an existing groundwater Pump & Treat system.
Accessible source areas were subsequently removed (2011) by soil excavation and treated with the placement of Emulsified Vegetable Oil EVO and zero-valent iron ZVI to accelerate treatment of impacted groundwater in overburden and weathered fractured bedrock. Post pilot test and post remediation groundwater monitoring has included analyses of CVOCs, organic fatty acids, dissolved gases and QuantArray® -Chlor to quantify key microorganisms (e.g., Dehalococcoides, Dehalobacter, etc.) and functional genes (e.g., vinyl chloride reductase, methane monooxygenase, etc.) to assess potential for reductive dechlorination and aerobic cometabolism of CVOCs.
In 2022, the first commercial application of MetaArray™ was performed at the site. MetaArray™ utilizes statistical analysis, such as principal component analysis and multivariate analysis to provide evidence that reductive dechlorination is active or even that it is slowing. This creates actionable data allowing users to save money by making important site management decisions earlier.
The results of the MetaArray™ analysis’ support vector machine (SVM) identified groundwater monitoring wells with a 80% confidence that were characterized as either Limited for Reductive Decholorination or had a High Reductive Reduction Dechlorination potential. The results of MetaArray™ will be used to further optimize the site’s post remediation monitoring program for monitored natural attenuation.
Recycling and Disposal on SWM Raymond Einyu pptxRayLetai1
Increasing urbanization, rural–urban migration, rising standards of living, and rapid development associated with population growth have resulted in increased solid waste generation by industrial, domestic and other activities in Nairobi City. It has been noted in other contexts too that increasing population, changing consumption patterns, economic development, changing income, urbanization and industrialization all contribute to the increased generation of waste.
With the increasing urban population in Kenya, which is estimated to be growing at a rate higher than that of the country’s general population, waste generation and management is already a major challenge. The industrialization and urbanization process in the country, dominated by one major city – Nairobi, which has around four times the population of the next largest urban centre (Mombasa) – has witnessed an exponential increase in the generation of solid waste. It is projected that by 2030, about 50 per cent of the Kenyan population will be urban.
Aim:
A healthy, safe, secure and sustainable solid waste management system fit for a world – class city.
Improve and protect the public health of Nairobi residents and visitors.
Ecological health, diversity and productivity and maximize resource recovery through the participatory approach.
Goals:
Build awareness and capacity for source separation as essential components of sustainable waste management.
Build new environmentally sound infrastructure and systems for safe disposal of residual waste and replacing current dumpsites which should be commissioned.
Current solid waste management situation:
The status.
Solid waste generation rate is at 2240 tones / day
collection efficiently is at about 50%.
Actors i.e. city authorities, CBO’s , private firms and self-disposal
Current SWM Situation in Nairobi City:
Solid waste generation – collection – dumping
Good Practices:
• Separation – recycling – marketing.
• Open dumpsite dandora dump site through public education on source separation of waste, of which the situation can be reversed.
• Nairobi is one of the C40 cities in this respect , various actors in the solid waste management space have adopted a variety of technologies to reduce short lived climate pollutants including source separation , recycling , marketing of the recycled products.
• Through the network, it should expect to benefit from expertise of the different actors in the network in terms of applicable technologies and practices in reducing the short-lived climate pollutants.
Good practices:
Despite the dismal collection of solid waste in Nairobi city, there are practices and activities of informal actors (CBOs, CBO-SACCOs and yard shop operators) and other formal industrial actors on solid waste collection, recycling and waste reduction.
Practices and activities of these actor groups are viewed as innovations with the potential to change the way solid waste is handled.
CHALLENGES:
• Resource Allocation.
Microbial characterisation and identification, and potability of River Kuywa ...Open Access Research Paper
Water contamination is one of the major causes of water borne diseases worldwide. In Kenya, approximately 43% of people lack access to potable water due to human contamination. River Kuywa water is currently experiencing contamination due to human activities. Its water is widely used for domestic, agricultural, industrial and recreational purposes. This study aimed at characterizing bacteria and fungi in river Kuywa water. Water samples were randomly collected from four sites of the river: site A (Matisi), site B (Ngwelo), site C (Nzoia water pump) and site D (Chalicha), during the dry season (January-March 2018) and wet season (April-July 2018) and were transported to Maseno University Microbiology and plant pathology laboratory for analysis. The characterization and identification of bacteria and fungi were carried out using standard microbiological techniques. Nine bacterial genera and three fungi were identified from Kuywa river water. Clostridium spp., Staphylococcus spp., Enterobacter spp., Streptococcus spp., E. coli, Klebsiella spp., Shigella spp., Proteus spp. and Salmonella spp. Fungi were Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus flavus complex and Penicillium species. Wet season recorded highest bacterial and fungal counts (6.61-7.66 and 3.83-6.75cfu/ml) respectively. The results indicated that the river Kuywa water is polluted and therefore unsafe for human consumption before treatment. It is therefore recommended that the communities to ensure that they boil water especially for drinking.
Improving the viability of probiotics by encapsulation methods for developmen...Open Access Research Paper
The popularity of functional foods among scientists and common people has been increasing day by day. Awareness and modernization make the consumer think better regarding food and nutrition. Now a day’s individual knows very well about the relation between food consumption and disease prevalence. Humans have a diversity of microbes in the gut that together form the gut microflora. Probiotics are the health-promoting live microbial cells improve host health through gut and brain connection and fighting against harmful bacteria. Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus are the two bacterial genera which are considered to be probiotic. These good bacteria are facing challenges of viability. There are so many factors such as sensitivity to heat, pH, acidity, osmotic effect, mechanical shear, chemical components, freezing and storage time as well which affects the viability of probiotics in the dairy food matrix as well as in the gut. Multiple efforts have been done in the past and ongoing in present for these beneficial microbial population stability until their destination in the gut. One of a useful technique known as microencapsulation makes the probiotic effective in the diversified conditions and maintain these microbe’s community to the optimum level for achieving targeted benefits. Dairy products are found to be an ideal vehicle for probiotic incorporation. It has been seen that the encapsulated microbial cells show higher viability than the free cells in different processing and storage conditions as well as against bile salts in the gut. They make the food functional when incorporated, without affecting the product sensory characteristics.