Information on how to be more energy efficient was provided to Durango businesses in a free workshop March 31 by La Plata Electric Association, the community’s local electric cooperative.
The workshop was part of a program sponsored by the Governor's Energy Office that helps businesses qualify for grant money for energy assessments and the installation of energy efficient lighting. During the session, LPEA explained the basics of energy data management and how the cooperative can monitor and evaluate data for those participating in the program — ultimately illustrating the energy and dollar savings.
"Essentially this program is the beginning of what we hope is an on-going effort throughout the state to encourage energy efficiency in smaller businesses," said Sue Maxwell, LPEA project specialist coordinating the program. "For purposes of this initial grant, we will work with businesses (25,000 sq. ft. or less) within the Durango business improvement district, and ideally lay the groundwork for a sustainable Main Street energy efficiency program at LPEA to help merchants and small businesses on an on-going basis."
LPEA was one of 12 communities in the state, and the only electric utility, to be invited to participate in the first round of the Main Street Energy Initiative program, and the cooperative will receive $7500 to launch the effort with local businesses.
During the application process, LPEA received memorandums of understanding from businesses indicating their interest in participating. LPEA's specialists have coordinated with these businesses to both perform energy assessments of the facilities and establish baseline energy consumption — plus evaluate their lighting.
"These businesses will be the first to have an option to retrofit their lighting with more efficient bulbs," said Maxwell. "If a business wants to follow through with a retrofit, we can first provide rebates on the bulbs, then add rebates from the MSEI program — likely about $1,250 until the MSEI money is exhausted, but each business will be unique."
The workshop was designed for businesses interested in lowering their energy costs. One key thing component of the workshop was a walk-through energy assessment of the businesses represented. That walk-through helped those businesses begin the process of changing out their lighting.
LPEA, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative established in 1939, provides its more than 30,000 members safe, reliable electricity at the lowest reasonable cost, while being environmentally responsible.