Golden Plains Area Renewable Energy Blog

USDA REAP grant trainings

2012-01-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

USDA Rural Development Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grant application training. - 3 upcoming sessions - 2 in CO and 1 in NE.

Note: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Contractors often find this training valuable, as they play a key role in the success of the application for a small business or agriculture producer.

COLORADO: 2 Workshops – 2 Locations, same content both days

Bring your own Brown Bag Lunch. This will be a working lunch, no refreshments will be provided.

Space is limited - RSVP required - 970.874.5735 x 136 to register

Friday, January 27, 2012 - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

DMEA

11925 6300 Road

Montrose, CO

Tuesday, February 7, 2012 - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Hotchkiss Senior Center

276 East Main

Hotchkiss, CO

NEBRASKA: (partnered with a renewable energy conf)

Tuesday, February 21, 2012 - 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. - $20 (includes lunch)

Updates, Agenda and Registration will be posted as they come available: http://panhandle.unl.edu/renewable_energy_conference

Contractor exchange!

2012-01-20T16:55:00.000-07:00

Join the 2012 Rocky Mountain Contractor Exchange!
February 21-22, 2012 at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds (Golden, CO)

The goal of the Rocky Mountain Contractor Exchange is to help contractors grow their business in the emerging home performance and clean energy markets. The Exchange will also highlight the opportunities available in home performance. Sessions feature interactive panel presentations with industry experts and contractors who have successfully incorporated energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives into traditional contracting business models. Contractors and other building trades participants can learn business skills to help them develop, build, and grow their business, and exchange information and experiences in the clean energy field.

http://www.egia.org/academy/RockyMountain/2012/

Colorado Ag Energy Workshops - FREE SEMINAR, FREE FOOD!

2012-01-20T16:52:00.000-07:00

The new Center for Agricultural Energy at Colorado State

University is proud to offer a winter workshop series

for producers and professionals. Each workshop will

focus on the potential benefits of agricultural energy

audits and will be supplemented by information on

energy topics such as biofuels, small hydropower,
anaerobic digestion, and more. Workshops are free
and lunch will be provided for those who pre-register.

Jan. 31 3712 Hwy 1 (Cleveland Ave) - Wellington

Ag energy audits, efficiency, anaerobic digestion

(970) 491- 6281

Feb. 2 Arkansas Valley Farm/ Ranch/Water Symposium -

Rocky Ford. Ag energy audits, efficiency

info: www.farmranchwater.org (719) 254-7608

Feb. 6 Lewis-Arriola Community Center - Cortez

Ag energy audits, solar, small hydropower, biofuels

(970) 562- 4255

Feb. 9 30th Annual Southern

Rocky Mountain Ag Conference and Expo -

Monte Vista

Ag energy audits, efficiency, water conservation,

soil health

info: http://www.monte-vista.org/

(719) 852-7381

Mar. 1 Delta-Montrose Electric Association - Montrose

Ag energy audits, efficiency, small hydropower, irrigation

denis.reich@colostate.edu

(970) 242-8683

Contractor training in CO -utility programs; energy efficiency models for you

2012-01-19T17:16:00.004-07:00

Business Model Case Studies for Contractors

Understanding utility programs and the opportunity for growth & profit through energy efficiency
Hosted by the Energy Efficiency Business Coalition and Xcel Energy

Join us for this complementary session including breakfast and lunch

You’ll hear first hand how other business leaders have adopted energy efficiency as a key strategy
to positively impact their contracting businesses for growth and profit.

Keynote Speaker Ron Binz, former Chairman of the Colorado Public Utilities Commission, will share
the big picture view of utility Demand Side Management programs and some of the political highlights
related to residential contracting businesses.

A panel of local energy efficiency contractors will discuss success stories and representatives from
Xcel Energy will recap 2011 results of their energy efficiency rebate programs, present awards to
leading contractors, and share updates for 2012.

What you’ll take away:

business best practices for creating more sales and happy customers, that are local and specific to your business
opportunities to create more revenue and profit through offering additional energy efficiency solutions
an understanding of utility demand side management to help you plan your business for the next two years of Xcel

Energy's energy efficiency programs

Event Dates and Locations

January 25, 2011 - Boulder
Millennium Harvest House Register Today

January 26, 2011 - Denver 
Cherry Creek Courtyard Register Today

January 27, 2011 - Grand Junction
Courtyard Marriott Register Today

Recycling grants available - CO

2012-01-19T16:54:00.000-07:00

Here is a grant opportunity for rural Colorado recycling help.

http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/oeis/p2_program/hubspoke.html

Check it out!

Tim

2011 Green Building Summit - 9/20 - Denver

2011-08-15T16:53:00.000-06:00

The 2011 Green Building Summit and Expo - September 20, 2011

GEO invites you to attend the 2011 Green Building Summit and Expo to be held on the morning of September 20, 2011 at The Inverness Hotel and Conference Center.

Achieving LEED-EB (and how are developers with large portfolios of existing buildings planning on deploying their capital to certify their buildings).

Speakers : Philip Said, Alliance for Sustainable Colorado; Cara Carmichael, Rocky Mountain Institute.

Integrated Design - What Does It Really Mean?

Speakers: Mike Tilbury, JE Dunn Construction Company: Mark Kranz, SmithGroup: Don Saal,Architectural Energy Corp.

Moving Toward Net Zero (Buildings, Blocks and Neighborhoods) - What Developers Need to Know.

Speakers: Llewellyn Wells, Living City Block.; Shanti Pless, NationaRenewable Energy Laboratory; Pete Jefferson, M.E. Group; Kevin Eronimous, Shears Adkins Rockmore; Victor Olgyay, Rocky Mountain Institute and Moderator: Philip Macey, Haselden Construction.

Energy Modeling - What Types and When to Use Them.

Speakers: Linda Morrison, Ambient Energy, Inc.; Susan Reilly, Group14 Engineering, Inc.; Chris Baker, THE WEIDT GROUP; and Thomas M. Wuertz, RNL.

Federal Incentives and Tax Deduction Programs for Going Green

Speakers: James Borgel, Holland & Hart LLP; Allen Gregory, Eide Bailly LLP; Derek Schockley, Xcel Energy; and Drew Torbin, ProLogis.

LEED Buildings - Is There An ROI?

Speakers: Krista Sprenger, Lend Lease Communities; Steve Clarke, Prime West Real Estate Services; David Zucker, Zocalo Development Ltd.; Conor Merrigan, Governor's Energy Office; Anne Hayes, Westfield Company, Inc; Jim McGibney, First Century Development, LLC; and Moderator: Dean Barber, McWhinney.

Produced by Colorado Real Estate Journal, the 2011 Summit will be Colorado's largest commercial Green Building conference of the year, with an anticipated attendance of more than 500.

GEO is pleased to be a trade association partner in the event.

Click here for a PDF of the program and registration information.

Colorado needs your input! TODAY!!

2011-08-10T09:20:00.000-06:00

It’s not too late to provide your feedback on Colorado’s Bottom-Up Economic Development Plan. We have all worked very hard together to make Colorado a leader in clean energy and energy efficiency so take a minute to look at the draft to ensure that our mission as a state is reflective of the opportunities that you see in your community.

http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite/OEDIT/OEDIT/1251595201376 and provide any feedback that you may have by August 10^th

This Plan will inform the steps that will be taken by the Hickenlooper Administration over the next few years to support and promote economic development across Colorado. Over the past 8 months, we’ve heard about your priorities and needs and believe we have captured your concerns and identified meaningful work plans to keep Colorado moving forward.

improving the "gas mileage" of your home

2011-07-08T13:13:00.000-06:00

Apparently, you’ve heard about the rebates in Colorado, as you called en-mass to request one. Good for you! That means that 1) you’re thinking about energy efficiency, and 2) you’re willing to save money to implement these energy efficiency measures. Fantastic!

So – “what’s all this energy-efficiency hullabaloo about, anyway?” – you might ask? Well – simply put – it’s about doing what you do already, smarter, and for less money. Think about it this way. Let’s say that you found a way to put gas in your car that cost you a dollar less per gallon that you put IN, and, caused each gallon that you use to go 30% farther than it would before. Chances are, you’d put this article down and go buy one, install it, and test it out before you ever finished reading – even if you don’t know too much about car and gas consumption. THAT is exactly what we’re doing with energy efficiency for your home. Energy costs money. It’s measured in kilowatt hours on your energy bill each month. Compare that number to the final price you pay at the gas pump. Of course, like your car, one payment doesn’t make it last forever. You’ve got to keep filling it, and keep filling it, and keep filling it. That new flat-panel TV that you bought at Christmas, and that new deep-freeze you bought for the garage – those are like putting an RV behind your vehicle. All of the sudden, you have to fill up more often, and, you don’t get as much out of the fuel you’re using. Same thing with energy. The more you use, the more you pay. Don’t worry, the energy company doesn’t mind – to borrow a phrase from a popular snack company “they’ll make more”. And – at 10¢-12¢ per kwh – it doesn’t hurt that much. We said the same thing when gas was a buck a gallon. But – what happened when gas went from $1 to $2 – then $3, and then $4? We took serious consideration what we did with our vehicle, and how often. Electric prices haven’t moved equitably with the price of fossil fuels – but I would venture a guess to say that it won’t be too many more years until they catch up. 25¢ - 40¢ per kwh would make a HUGE difference in your electric bill each month, would it not? I know it would at my house!

Using energy efficiency measures help negate your energy consumption – as simply as if you installed something on your car that would save you $1 per gallon used (rebates), and making your miles per gallon increase by 30% (efficiency)- for your house or business. TRULY! Do I have your attention yet?

Usually – energy efficiency measures don’t cost very much. They’re relatively easy to install, and they save you money. Let’s put it into numbers. The average Colorado homeowner consumes 687 kwh per month (2009 source: http://www.eia.gov/tools/faqs/faq.cfm?id=97&t=3 – from excel spreadsheet titled: “Average monthly residential electricity consumption, prices, and bills by state” ). Out in Colorado, the average kwh costs 10.5¢ (2011 source: http://www.eia.gov/cneaf/electricity/epm/table5_6_a.html ) So, the average energy bill (NON-FARM!) is around $72.15 per month. With whole-house typical energy efficiency measures installed, average savings on CONSUMED energy is about 30%. That means, your average consumption goes from 687 kwh per month to 481 kwh per month. (Remember the analogy of the car? If your car “all of the sudden” went 30% farther on each gallon of gasoline – it would be HUGE, right?) Well – this brings your average energy bill down to $50.50. That’s a savings of $21.65 per month, or $259.80 per year. The cool thing about energy savings – your savings are at TODAY’s rate, and, you save it FOREVER. If the price ever goes UP (which it will) – you’re saving even MORE! Now – most people will tell you it will take 15-20 years to “payback” your investment. SO WHAT? You’re saving $259.80 per year. In 20 years, you will have SAVED - $5,196.00. That’s presuming prices NEVER go up. Is investing $250 - $2500 in your home worth $5,196 in savings over the next 20 years? Let me put it another way. Would you rather pay $17,316 for your energy over the next 20 years, or $12,120 for your energy over the next 20 years – for the exact same thing? Now, you’re starting to understand what this hullabaloo is about. It’s about saving YOU money. It’s about making YOUR money go further. It’s about time! You have to pay the energy bill, just like you have to put gas in your car. Why not do it cheaper????? Let’s put it into the terms of investment – is 200% - 2000% return on your investment a good deal? Where else are you going to find those returns these days? You can’t just look at the few bucks you’ll be saving each month – but look at the LONG run!

How do I start this process? You start with a home energy audit. The website www.rechargecolorado.com Is how to find an auditor near you. The process is very simple: 1) type in your zip code in the grey box at the right (Find Rebates, Incentives, and Contractors) and press GO. 2) Scroll down to Find more Rebates… Enter in the info (Zip code plus seven very easy questions) BE SURE TO SELECT Audits/Energy Audits IN THE PROJECT TYPE BOX and click FIND RESULTS. You are in the REBATES tab now – which will show you rebates available. 3) Click on the CONTRACTOR LISTING tab. You now have a list of contractors in your area of the state who do certified energy audits. Audits vary in price depending on the complexity of what is done, but most contractors are very willing to give you a price estimate of how much you are looking at (typically - $125 – 500). Once the audit is complete, you are given a list of simple things you can do yourself, and also referred to contractors who can do the not-so-simple things. The screen where you selected Audits / Energy Audits earlier also gives you info on how you can benefit from other rebates for energy efficiency for your Colorado home or business. All of these equate to the example of getting the dollar off of the gallon of gas – but, for your home.

Colorado State University Extension is providing you this information as a service of the Community Energy Coordinators. Our services are often free. If this has sparked your interest and you want to learn more, log on to our energy-specific website: http://www.ext.colostate.edu/energy/index.html.

We have dedicated folks across the state that you can talk with, too:
In the Northeast: Tim Edgar – 970-522-3200 x 276 or Rich Mullaney – 970-466-2355
In the San Luis Valley: Jeanna Paluzzi: 719-849-8576
In Clear Creek and Gilpin counties: Rebecca Cantwell: 303-582-9106
In Custer and Fremont counties: Kimberly Stein: 719-783-2514
On Campus in Fort Collins: Cary Weiner: 970-491-3784

Don’t wait. These savings are IMMEDIATE! It’s time to improve your home’s “gas mileage!”

Tim Edgar is a Community Energy Coordinator serving Northeastern Colorado. He has helped homeowners, businesses, and municipalities save money on their energy bills, and get rebate / tax credits back for doing so. Tim loves Rural Colorado, and thrives on helping local rural businesses succeed where the ‘odds’ are against them – keeping it truly “Home on the Range”.

Training in Aspen, CO on 6/30 (LU / HSW / SD Credits and/or GBCI LU's available)

2011-06-28T16:38:00.000-06:00

The GEO's High Performance Building Program presents a FREE day-long series of workshops in Aspen, CO. The topics of the four sessions during the day will be: Daylighting, Envelopes & Energy, Practically Zero, and Geoexchange. Each session will run between 1.5 and 2 hours with a 30 minute break between sessions and an 1.5 hour lunch on your own. Registration required.

To register individually for classes, use the following links.
Register for ONLY Daylighting 101 and 201 for Public Buildings (8 - 10 a.m.)
Register for ONLY Energy & Envelopes: High Performance Building Envelopes 201
(10:30 a.m. - noon)
Register for ONLY Practically Zero: The Colorado Path to Net Zero Buildings 201 (1:30 - 3 p.m.)
Register for ONLY Geoexchange for High Performance Buildings 201 (3:30 - 5 p.m.)

To register for the whole day, use the following link.
Register for ALL FOUR workshops (8 a.m. - 5 p.m.)

What to do? Energy Events in Colorao - June

2011-05-26T17:17:00.000-06:00

June 1 - CREED

June 2-4 - Colorado Renewable Energy Conference

The conference offers an in-depth exploration of the extraordinary work done in Colorado and Northern Front Range. Over 50 sessions and 70 speakers on renewable energy, sustainable building and technologies, environmental science, and more will be presented by foremost experts from throughout Colorado and across the nation. More

June 16 - What's next in High Performance Buildings - Webinar -for architects, building owners, MEP engineers, consultants and contractors - please visit our registration page

June 16 - Green Roofs for the West Symposium

This forward-thinking and informative event will spotlight innovative ways green roofs are leading us to a future of more sustainable cities in the challenging climate of the West. It is co-hosted by the Botanic Gardens, U.S. Green Building Council, the University of Colorado and Colorado State University. The Symposium will feature a full day of in-depth sessions, presented by leading green roof experts and designers who will address green infrastructure and how green roofs fit into sustainable urban, suburban and regional planning. More

June 22-24 - The LOHAS Forum

June 27 - Beyond the Building - the Occupant Factor 201 - Denver - 999 18th St, Suite 215 - A designer, professor and anthropologist uncover the factors that drive individuals to work with, or against, their surroundings to conserve energy. - please visit our registration page

June 30 - Day-Long series of workshops in Aspen, CO - The GEO's High Performance Building Program presents a FREE day-long series of workshops. The topics of the four sessions during the day will be: Daylighting, Envelopes & Energy, Practically Zero, and Geoexchange. Each session will run between 1.5 and 2 hours with a 30 minute break between sessions and an 1.5 hour lunch on your own.

For more details on each workshop, please follow the corresponding registration links below.

Date & Time: Thursday, June 30, 2011; 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Location: Colorado Mountain College
255 Sage Way
Aspen, CO 81611-2516
Map to Colorado Mountain College

Register for ALL FOUR workshops (8 a.m. - 5 p.m.)

community development grant

2011-05-26T16:45:00.000-06:00

The Orton Family Foundation, based in Middlebury, Vermont, and Denver, Colorado, seeks to help small cities and towns describe, apply and uphold their heart and soul so that they can adapt to change while maintaining or enhancing the things they value most.

We invite proposals from communities that want to enhance the heart and soul attributes of their community through values-based planning, decision-making and action.

Communities must be located in either New England (CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, or VT) or the northern Rocky Mountain region (CO, ID, MT, WY). They must be prepared to experiment with new methods and tools that further the town’s and the Foundation’s learning around an improved process for community planning.

The Foundation will support projects at a municipal or neighborhood scale. Project applicants must include an incorporated municipality (city or town) and at least one local or regional partner (public, private or non-profit). The Foundation will consider a joint application from “twin city” municipalities if they share a common identity. For the purposes of this RFP, and in order to create a learning community among Project Towns, the Foundation will not consider regional projects. It will not consider applications from counties or unincorporated townships.

Learn more at http://www.orton.org/projects/rfp

Wind for Schools - Colorado

2011-05-26T16:03:00.000-06:00

1. Wind for School (Colorado) applications are now open for 2012:

http://www.engr.colostate.edu/wac

Please feel free to apply for this program, which pays for about 75% of the cost of the installing a small wind turbine at schools.

Community Energy Coordinators Tim and Rich would love to help you with this application. Let us know how we can be of assistance.

Small Hydro Workship - 6/15 - Denver

2011-05-26T16:00:00.000-06:00

2011 Colorado Small Hydro Workshop

June 15^th in Denver

The 2011 Colorado Small Hydro Workshop will take place on Wednesday, June 15, 2011 at Lindsay Auditorium at the University of Denver.

The Workshop will include panels on small hydro in Colorado, new low-head technologies to agricultural applications, methods of financing hydro projects in Colorado, innovative utility policies to support small hydro, a review of Colorado's FERC permitting pilot program, as well as a recent projects round-table.

The luncheon keynote address will be provided by TJ Deora, Director of the Colorado Governor's Energy Office.

The workshop is being held in conjunction with the National Hydropower Association's Regional Meeting, which is taking place at the same location the previous day, Tuesday, June 14^th.

Both events are free and registration is open to any interested members of the public. Registration is available on-line at hydro.org

The workshop is being sponsored by the Colorado Governor's Energy Office and the San Juan County Historical Society with support from History Colorado's State Historical Fund.

Energy Grant for 2011 for businesses

2011-05-26T15:20:00.000-06:00

I just want to make sure that we all know about this opportunity! Please share with those in your community that are interested.

Provide Energy in Rural Areas!
Rural Energy for America Program
POSTED: 4/14/2011
FUNDING SOURCE: USDA
ELIGIBILITY: Rural energy providers
$ AVAILABLE: $2,800,000
GRANTS AVAILABLE: N.A.
MAX GRANT SIZE: $20,000
DEADLINE: 6/15/2011
CONTACT INFORMATION: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2011-04-14/html/2011-8456.htm
DESCRIPTION: Loans and grants for energy projects that benefit rural areas.

This is a federal grant (REAP). There are four categories: Renewable Energy Systems; Energy Efficiency Improvement projects; energy audits; and feasibility studies. There are Colorado resources to help you. If you would like an application - email me and let me know. The window is short - but, grants up to 1/4 of the project cost, and low-interest loans up to 3/4 of the project cost may be worth the effort. Any size project!

The CO Governor's Energy Office launches the "Renewable Energy Development Team" program

2011-05-26T15:10:00.000-06:00

The Governor's Energy Office (GEO) is pleased to announce the start of its Renewable Energy Development Team (REDT) program. The program supports the GEO's efforts in charting Colorado's future as a leader in clean, renewable energy. The program will identify renewable energy projects with the highest likelihood of successful development and to move eligible projects closer to success.

It is anticipated that over 200 projects will receive technical assistance from the REDT program. The program will not provide funding to applicants, but rather up to 120 hours of technical assistance will be provided.

In order to ensure optimal attention to each selected project, the REDT will limit the number of projects chosen. The program is intended to support projects that do not have the financial capabilities to move forward to an investor and/or project developer review stage without additional assistance. Applications for the REDT project will be moved through a stage-gate review process, designed to ensure that the projects with the best opportunity for success advance. Projects that reach the final REDT stage, an estimated two-dozen, will be presented to a group of renewable energy project developers and potential investors.

What projects and entities are eligible for REDT assistance?

Local governments, non-profits, utilities, and land owners are eligible to apply
Projects must be located in Colorado
A basic scope of the project must be available and an application must be submitted for consideration
Eligible technologies and project types include the following distributed renewable electrical generation sectors, with a nameplate rating of 30 megawatts (MW) or less except where noted:

Biomass (non-toxic plant matter, animal waste and waste products, and methane from landfills or waste-water residuals only)
Small hydro (less than 10 MW)
Solar photovoltaic and solar thermal
Distributed Generation (under 30 MW) wind
Geothermal (direct-use applications and power generation, excludes heat pumps)

The application for this program is now online at www.RechargeColorado.com. For more information, and to access the application, visit the Renewable Energy Development Team page in the "Programs, Policies & Initiatives" section.

What to do? Energy Events in Colorao - May

2011-05-11T16:22:00.002-06:00

Energy Events in Colorado - check them out:

* Community Energy Strategic Planning and the CESP Academy, May 12 - webinar - website

* iMatter March - Denver - May 14 - Website
* Computer Power Management with ENERGY STAR, May 17 - webinar - website
* Landscapes market our communities - May 19 - CEO of Denver Botanical Gardens - 6:30 pm at Idalia - call (970) 854-3616 and speak with Linda for details
* Ram Bicycle Classic - 10 mile, 34 mile, 61 mile, or 101 mile options - MAY 22 - website
* The Power, Pitfalls, and Possibilities of Integrated Design for High Performance - May 23 - Webinar - website

* Scoring Energy Performance with EPA’s Portfolio Manager, May 25 - webinar - website
* Demand-Side Management Class (through EEBC) - May 26 - website
* 15 classes - Colorado Energy Code - weekly on Wed - Westminster - website

Sustainability Summit and Expo - 4/11 - 4/12

2011-02-28T16:57:00.003-07:00

Sustainability Opportunities Summit

Sustainability is everywhere in the business press these days, from the Wall Street Journal to the Newsweek Green Rankings to ColoradoBiz. We’re reading about businesses that have integrated socially and environmentally responsible thinking across their operations, demonstrating greater resilience in a challenging economy. They are positioning themselves for competitive advantage in an uncertain future.

If you haven’t made sustainability a key driver of your business strategy, this is your chance to find out what all the buzz is about. And if you are already onboard, connect with leading regional and national experts to build on your successes.

Now in its sixth year, the Summit is the oldest and largest business sustainability conference in the Rocky Mountain region. This business-to-business conference is co-hosted by CORE and the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship at the Leeds School of Business, University of Colorado.

Attendees from business, academia, and the public sector will have the opportunity to absorb strategies and tools for achieving measurable results. Find answers to your most perplexing questions through interactive sessions with speakers and panelists. The Expo accompanying the Summit will be packed with exhibitors carefully selected to reflect the theme and topics of the program sessions.

Join your peers at the sixth annual Sustainable Opportunities Summit.

April 11/12 - DENVER

Discount pricing extended through March 15 online:

http://www.sosummit.org/home/

How much does ONE light bulb cost you to operate?

2011-02-28T16:55:00.001-07:00

http://www.journal-advocate.com/ci_17230019?IADID to find out!

State Historical Fund 2011 Grant Cycle

2011-02-28T10:55:00.002-07:00

Do you plan to submit a grant application for the Colorado State Historical Fund’s deadline on April 1?

Do you need a chance to discuss your grant project with an Outreach staff member? If so, we invite you to participate in one of our upcoming Roundtable discussions. While SHF Outreach staff are always available by phone or email, these Roundtable forums provide you with the chance to meet with us in a more intimate setting, while networking and learning from fellow applicants and their projects.

Please visit our website to download the 2011 Grant Handbook and Application.
http://www.coloradohistory-oahp.org/programareas/shf/application.htm

Please note that these Roundtable sessions take the place of our traditional Workshop Presentations.

Thursday, March 10 – Fort Morgan
Café Lotus, 307 E Kiowa
2:00 – 5:00pm
RSVP by 3/4/2011 to Cynthia Nieb, cynthia.nieb@chs.state.co.us or 303-866-2809

upcoming classes, free online tools

2011-02-24T14:29:00.002-07:00

Flex Energy Tool helps planning for shifts in future energy use

The FLEX Energy Tool was developed by the GEO and its team to help building projects plan for future shifts in energy use and delivery. The tool is made up of three parts:
• An introduction and handbook for the flex energy tool covering different types of future energy sources for buildings and how to incorporate them into your project
• The Flex Energy tool for working with drawings to design in flex energy for particular projects

The Flex Energy Tool is a required part of the CO-CHPS rating system. It is extremely useful for any project that is being designed with a view towards the future and reducing energy costs.

Additional items are also available on our tools and resources page at http://bit.ly/hY5vN8

Registration now available for March Webinar
Investigating Building Energy 101:
Audits, Commissioning and Performance Contracting

Is your existing building an energy hog or a slim, trim efficient machine? This free 90 minute webinar brought to you by Governor's Energy Office High Performance Building Program, illuminates the basics of investigating existing building energy use and will help building professionals understand existing building engineering services including energy audits, commissioning, recommissioning and performance contracting. Get the most out of your energy dollar by examining existing data, identifying problems as they develop, and hiring the right professional for the job. Architects, Building Owners, MEP Engineers, Sustainability Consultants and Contractors are encouraged to attend.

Date & Time: Thursday, March 24, 2011; 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. MDT

For more information and registration, please visit our registration page
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/300946856

Deep Energy: Major Renovations planned for Colo. Springs

This workshop will present a detailed overview of energy renovations for a variety of commercial building types. Presenters will illustrate the process and benefits of an energy audit, energy renovations and retrofits. Energy modeling and the decision making processes will be reviewed. How to create and implement a deep energy major renovation plan will also be addressed.

RECOMMENDED AUDIENCE: Building owners and operators, architects, energy auditors, sustainability consultants, and contractors.

LOCATION: Pikes Peak Regional Building Department 2880 International Circle, Colorado Springs, CO, 80910

Date & Time: Thursday, March 31; 8:30 - 11:30 a.m.

For more information and registration, please visit our registration page:
http://www.planetreg.com/E26838065

Help define CO strategic plan

2011-02-24T14:23:00.001-07:00

Governor Hickenlooper understands that the number one priority of the residents of the state of Colorado is to rebuild the economy and create jobs. He is asking for residents across the State to develop a strategic economic development plan for their county from the “bottom-up” and wants to chart a course for economic revival county by county in Colorado. These county plans will then be rolled up into 14 regional economic development plans, which collectively will be rolled up into a statewide economic development plan.

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), along with Colorado State University’s Office of Engagement and Extension and other state partners, would like to invite you to the 2nd round of “Next Steps” Regional Meetings for the Governor’s Bottom-Up Economic Development Plan Initiative. These meetings are being scheduled throughout the state during the remainder of February and the month of March. After conducting 1st round of regional meetings around the state, we are excited to rollout the “Next Steps”. These regional meetings will provide and overview of the process, timelines, tools, resources and identify the objectives, outcomes and roles counties, regions and the state for this process.

Access the tools & resources on the OEDIT website: www.advancecolorado.com – click on “Governor’s Bottom-Up Economic Development Plan” button in the upper right hand corner of the webpage.
o Online Survey (click here -->) http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/462074/County-Economic-Development-Self-Assessment-Survey
o County, Regional and State Data
o County Plan Template
o County and Regional Economic Development Plans
o Regional Meeting Notes, Comments & Questions
o For more information, please contact us at input@state.co.us

Want to learn more? www.advancecolorado.com

Energy jobs in CO

2011-02-18T10:58:00.002-07:00

The Colorado Energy Office is hiring! The closing date is 2/25/2011 and 2/28/2011 respectively.

http://rechargecolorado.com/index.php/who_is_the_geo/employment_and_internships/
http://rechargecolorado.com/images/uploads/pdfs/Finance_Manager_Job_Description_FINAL_20110217.pdf

So is the Colorado Foundation for Water Education! The closing date is 3/11/2011

www.cfwe.org/jobs.

upcoming classes, free online tools

2011-02-18T10:23:00.004-07:00

Recharging Historic Buildings 201: ONLINE

Date & Time: Thursday, February 24, 2011; 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. MDT
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/362620417

Deep Energy: Major Renovations planned for Colo. Springs

This workshop will present a detailed overview of energy renovations for a variety of commercial building types. Presenters will illustrate the process and benefits of an energy audit, energy renovations and retrofits. Energy modeling and the decision making processes will be reviewed. How to create and implement a deep energy major renovation plan will also be addressed.

RECOMMENDED AUDIENCE: Building owners and operators, architects, energy auditors, sustainability consultants, and contractors.

LOCATION: Pikes Peak Regional Building Department 2880 International Circle, Colorado Springs, CO, 80910

AGENDA
1. Energy Audits: Process and outcomes
2. Energy Benchmarks
3. Equipment and Safety
4. Personnel interviews
5. Strategies for no-cost and low-cost energy-reduction capital improvements
6. Tried and true renovation tactics
7. Deep Energy Major Renovations
8. Creating and implementing a deep energy major renovation plan

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• Assess the building energy savings of a major renovation to a commercial building
• Discuss the process of energy auditing for their building stock
• Develop energy goal setting strategies for commercial facilities
• Recognize typical major renovation technologies and strategies applicable to their building types

PRESENTERS
• Pete Jefferson, LEED® AP, PE: ME Group
• Jesse Stanley, EIT: Ambient Energy

Date & Time: Thursday, March 31; 8:30 - 11:30 a.m.

For more information and registration, please visit our registration page: http://www.planetreg.com/E26838065.

Tools & Resources: Free online documents available

The GEO High Performance Building program has created a library of tools, resources and case studies to use on your next high performance building project. From a building owner's manual to a Flex Energy Tools, these free downloadable documents are designed to reduce the energy impact of new and major renovation projects.

For more information and registration, please visit our tools and resources page http://bit.ly/hY5vN8.

Sustainable Opportunities Summit 2011 - Denver April 11/12, 2011

Sustainability is everywhere in the business press these days, from the Wall Street Journal to the Newsweek Green Rankings to ColoradoBiz. We’re reading about businesses that have integrated socially and environmentally responsible thinking across their operations, demonstrating greater resilience in a challenging economy. They are positioning themselves for competitive advantage in an uncertain future.

If you haven’t made sustainability a key driver of your business strategy, this is your chance to find out what all the buzz is about. And if you are already on-board, connect with leading regional and national experts to build on your successes.

Now in its sixth year, the Summit is the oldest and largest business sustainability conference in the Rocky Mountain region. This business-to-business conference is co-hosted by CORE and the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship at the Leeds School of Business, University of Colorado.

Attendees from business, academia, and the public sector will have the opportunity to absorb strategies and tools for achieving measurable results. Find answers to your most perplexing questions through interactive sessions with speakers and panelists. The Expo accompanying the Summit will be packed with exhibitors carefully selected to reflect the theme and topics of the program sessions.

Join your peers for a day-and-a-half of insight and innovation. Put your organization on the path to sustainable success: http://www.sosummit.org/home/

Grower Research and Education Grants Available / Second Call for Proposals

2011-02-09T11:59:00.002-07:00

FORT COLLINS - The Specialty Crops Program at Colorado State University is accepting applications for grower research and education grants for the 2011 production season. The application deadline is March 7.

The request for proposals is intended for research, demonstration and/or education projects that address specialty crops production, processing and marketing issues faced by small farmers, beginning farmers or socially disadvantaged farmers in Colorado.

These classifications are defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as follows.
• Small farmers are farmers whose farm sales are less than $250,000 per year.
• Beginning farmers, defined as individuals who have not operated a farm or ranch for more than 10 years. The 10-year requirement applies to all operators of the farm or ranch.
• Socially disadvantaged farmers, which include farmers or ranchers who are members of a socially disadvantaged group.
(A "socially disadvantaged group" is a group whose members have been subject to discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or a part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program. )

Producers and groups of producers interested in conducting research, demonstration, and/or education projects related to specialty crop production, processing or marketing are encouraged to apply.

For a downloadable program description and application form of the Grower Research and Education Grant Program, visit http://www.specialtycrops.colostate.edu,

contact Frank Stonaker at (970) 491-7068

or apply by writing to:
Specialty Crops Program - Request for Proposals
1173 Campus Delivery
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO 80523-1173

workshops / webinars available

2011-02-04T15:59:00.003-07:00

Recharging Historic Buildings 201: ONLINE
Date & Time: Thursday, February 24, 2011; 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. MDT
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/362620417

Envelopes and Energy Workshop - Fort Collins
DATE & TIME: Wednesday, February 16, 2011; 10 - 11:30 a.m.
LOCATION: The Neenan Company, 2620 East Prospect Road, Suite 100, Ft. Collins, CO 80525
http://www.planetreg.com/E11715523265

Workshop: Geoexchange for High Performance Buildings 201
DATE & TIME: Wednesday, February 16, 2011; 1 - 2:30 p.m.
LOCATION: The Neenan Company, 2620 East Prospect Road, Suite 100, Ft. Collins, CO 80525
http://www.planetreg.com/E1171223565

Practically Zero: The Colorado Path to Net Zero Buildings, Space is Limited
DATE & TIME: Thursday, February 17, 2011 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
LOCATION: Alliance for Sustainable Colorado, 1536 Wynkoop Street, 4A, Denver, CO 80202
http://www.planetreg.com/E11813253965

Build your Green Career - with CSU!

2011-02-03T16:39:00.003-07:00

CSU Institute for the Built Environment presents:

Certificate courses:

Green-Built certificate: Build healthier, smarter buildings with tools like the LEED Green Building rating system with this comprehensive course taught by renowned experts. Online or in person (Denver)

Green Homes certificate: Build healthier, smarter homes to meet the demand for environmentally sustainable construction. Approved for LEED credential maintenance. Online.

Online class modules:

LEED Green associates exam prep: Increase your chances of mastering the LEED GA exam with our comprehensive and thorough 5-hour course which will highlight core concepts and principles of Green Building and the LEED rating system. Online.

High Performance and Alternative Heating and Cooling systems: Learn how to increase energy efficiency and comfort with high performance and alternative heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Online.

Sustainable lighting and daylighting: Learn how to utilize natural light to reduce energy use and to boost health and productivity. This module features the basics of quality daylighting and electric lighting design. Online.

Renewable Energy systems for new and existing homes: Learn how to use sun to power and heat your home. This module features renewable energy systems for new, remodeled, and existing homes. Online.

Learn more online today at:
http://www.learn.colostate.edu/courses/noncredit/?subject_cat=44349#courselistings

Recycling grants available - CO

2011-02-03T15:21:00.001-07:00

Recycling Resources Economic Opportunity Fund Grants Program
NOW AVAILABLE – FY 2012 RREO REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS

http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/oeis/p2_program/rreorfo.html

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment working through the Pollution Prevention Advisory Board and the Assistance Committee to the board, is requesting applications for grants that will be awarded from the Recycling Resources Economic Opportunity (RREO) Fund (C.R.S. §25-16.5-106.5 (Chapter 270 Article 19.7)). The Recycling Resources Economic Opportunity Act created a recycling grant program to fund implementation projects that promote economic development through the productive management of recyclable materials that would otherwise be treated as discards. Projects that meet this goal are designed to implement source reduction, recycling, composting, anaerobic digestion, or beneficial use/re-use for a variety of materials. The committee is specifically looking to fund projects that have the ability to be sustainable beyond the scope of the grant, will enhance the financial viability of recycling in Colorado, and will create new jobs in the state.

This will be the fourth year for RREO grant funding. Approximately $775,000 is expected to be available in the fiscal year 2012 RREO grant cycle to fund multiple projects of one year in duration.

Grant applicants are strongly encouraged to attend an optional bidders’ meeting on Tuesday, February 8, 2011 from 2:00 – 4:00 PM. The meeting will be held in the Sabin/Cleere Room at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, 80246. The committee will address questions related to this RFA, and questions may be submitted in advance to Assistance Committee Chair Marjorie Griek at mgriek@cafr.org . Please submit questions no later than 12:00 noon on Thursday, February 3, 2011. Answers to questions posed by e-mail and during this meeting will be posted on the department’s website by February 14, 2011. Please RSVP for the meeting by contacting Eric Heyboer, Recycling Grants Administrator, at 303-691-4955 or cdphe.ppp2@state.co.us (include in the Subject Line: “RREO Grant Bidder’s Meeting Reservation”). Include name of business or organization, name(s) of those attending and contact phone number(s). Applicants who are unable to attend the bidders’ meeting in person may join the meeting via teleconference. Contact Eric Heyboer if planning to attend via phone.

CO - Multifamily Weatherization program

2011-02-03T15:02:00.002-07:00

Multifamily Weatherization Program Grant Announcement
& Invitation to Apply

Energy Outreach Colorado, the GEO's multifamily weatherization service provider, is excited to invite low-income multifamily housing providers to apply for funding for weatherization of low-income multifamily buildings for the 2011-2012 Multifamily Weatherization grant cycle. Applications will be accepted between Monday, January 17 and closing at 11:59 p.m. on February 11, 2011.

The goal of this program is to increase the energy efficiency of multifamily buildings occupied by low-income persons, reduce residents' total residential expenditures, and improve the health and safety of multifamily buildings. Priority is given to those properties serving low-income persons who are particularly vulnerable such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, families with children, high residential energy users, and households with a high energy burden.

Please visit http://www.energyoutreachcolorado.org/overview_mfwg
for more information and to apply.

Multi-Family Weatherization

2011-01-31T16:04:00.001-07:00

2011-2012

MULTI-FAMILY WEATHERIZATION PROGRAM GRANT ANNOUNCEMENT
and INVITATION TO APPLY

Energy Outreach Colorado is excited to invite ALL low-income multifamily housing providers to apply for weatherization funding for the 2011-2012 Multifamily Weatherization grant cycle. Applications will be accepted between Monday, January 17 and closing at 11:59 p.m. on February 11, 2011.

Funding options for the 2011-2012 multifamily weatherization program has changed significantly from last year. Please read the following information to understand the new eligibility requirements for your application.

What is NEW about the Multifamily Weatherization Program:

Energy Outreach Colorado will be administering weatherization grants on behalf of a number of organizations including the Colorado Governor’s Energy Office, energy utility programs, and specific service districts. Applications will be evaluated against all funding sources, and selected projects will be funded by ONE primary funding source only.

EOC will be accepting applications for ALL 5+ unit multifamily building types regardless of how the building is heated. EOC will accept applications from centrally heated and individually heated buildings.

Grants will have different closing dates depending on funding source. Some projects must be completed by December 2011, while other projects must have all work completed by June 2012. This information will be available when the project is selected for funding.

What is the SAME about the Multifamily Weatherization Program:

The benefits of this program is to increase the energy efficiency of dwellings owned or occupied by low-income persons, reduce their total residential expenditures, and improve their health and safety. Priority is given to those properties serving especially low-income persons who are particularly vulnerable such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, families with children, high residential energy users, and households with high energy burden.

This is an Investment in your property. Most multi-dwelling buildings have a huge potential for energy savings. Even buildings that were built in the 70s typically demonstrate considerable savings just from efficiency upgrades. Gas and electric prices are not getting any cheaper, energy consumption is not going down, and the equipment operating in your building is losing efficiency with each passing year. Your commitment of time and resources to participate in the program will be recovered through the capital improvements made, reduced utility and operation and maintenance costs, and increased tenant comfort and satisfaction.

How to Apply:

Previous Applicants:

EOC has saved all of the application data that was submitted in previous funding cycles.
Please visit http://www.energyoutreachcolorado.org/overview_mfwg and log in with your existing password. Your application(s) from last year will be available for updates with the option to resubmit. A “request login information” button will be available in case you have forgotten your login information.

Applicants new to this Process:

Please visit http://www.energyoutreachcolorado.org/overview_mfwg and follow the instructions to create a login and password.
Once you create a login, you will be guided through a brief program overview. We strongly encourage you to “save your work” frequently as you complete the applications so no data is lost.
You will have the opportunity to access and edit your applications throughout the open application period, or until you follow the instructions to “submit” each property once its information is complete.

Need Help with your Application?

EOC will be hosting 2 additional webinars to answer any questions about your application or to trouble-shoot any problems. The webinar dates are February 1 and February 8 from 10-11 am. Invitations and details about the webinar will be sent directly to active applications only.

Green Jobs grant - COLORADO - REVISED

2011-01-31T15:59:00.001-07:00

The Green Jobs Colorado Advisory Council has extended the application deadline for the Green Jobs Training Program grant. The new application deadline is February 9, 2011.

Additionally, The Colorado Workforce Development Council will make funding available to cover the administrative costs (indirect costs) for Green Jobs Colorado Training Program grant recipients. To view the notice of funding availability for administrative costs please visit: www.colorado.gov/cdle/cwdc/grantopportunities

Colorado sixth in Energy Services Contracting

2011-01-31T15:54:00.002-07:00

State rankings of "energy performance contracting dollars per capita" in Energy Services Coalition's 'Race to the Top':
#1: Idaho
#2: Hawaii
#3: Massachusetts
#4: Utah
#5: Kansas
#6: Colorado
#7: Rhode Island
#8: Maryland

See more at:
http://www.energyservicescoalition.org/espc/table.aspx

Colorado - FERC, and SMALL HYDRO MOU

2011-01-31T15:43:00.003-07:00

The Governor's Energy Office announced today the start of its Small Hydro Streamlined Federal Permitting Program in partnership with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The program implements the provisions of a groundbreaking agreement Colorado and FERC signed in late August 2010 aimed at permitting 20 low impact hydropower projects in the next year. Together, FERC and Colorado have designed a streamlined permitting process that will utilize Colorado's expertise to expedite the permitting process and reduce the time needed for FERC to review permit applications. Colorado has received significant attention nationwide for our pioneering efforts in forging this MOU with FERC.

GEO's Small Hydro Permitting Program is part of the Renewable Energy Development Team (REDT) initiative, which uses American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding to support applicants with technical assistance for distributed renewable electrical generation projects. The Small Hydro Permitting Program will review permit applications and assist small hydro project developers in the preparation of applications that meet FERC requirements. This new process will save time and money for renewable hydropower developers and increase the development of projects throughout Colorado.

The program will exclusively assist developers of low impact projects using existing infrastructure. Low impact projects by definition do not increase stream diversions and do not have adverse effects on water quality, fish passage or cultural resources. Examples of this include municipal water systems, irrigation ditches and water treatment plants. The goal of the program is to add certainty to the process and shorten FERC's turnaround period to 90 days or less.

The application for this program is now online at RechargeColorado.com. Look for the Renewable Energy Development Team link, on the "Programs, Policies & Initiatives" section of our website - www.rechargecolorado.com

Colorado Transmission STAR report available

2011-01-20T12:22:00.001-07:00

The Governor's Energy Office (GEO) is proud to announce the release of the Strategic Transmission and Renewables (STAR) report- A Vision of Colorado's Electric Power Sector to the Year 2050. The STAR report is the fourth installment in a series of reports released by the GEO to prepare Colorado for a changing electric power landscape.

The STAR report picks up where the GEO's Renewable Energy Development Infrastructure (REDI) report left off, delving further into the changing electricity sector landscape. The report provides detailed analyses regarding new ways in which policy-makers can plan for an optimal mix of demand side measures, supply side resources, and the transmission infrastructure necessary to deliver reliable electric power to a growing, and increasingly electrified state. The report provides potential pathways on how Colorado's electricity sector can reach the Climate Action Plan's goal: a 20 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 2020 and an 80 percent reduction by 2050 below 2005 levels.

To access the report and its supporting documentation, click through to:
http://www.rechargecolorado.com/index.php/programs_overview/star_project/

BPI BUILDING ANALYST CERTIFICATION COURSE

2011-01-20T12:16:00.002-07:00

BPI certification isn't out of reach. Now, it's just around the corner!

http://www.ppcc.edu/workforce-development/programs-services/bpi-building-analyst-training/

Increase your availability of skills, increase your list of services. Check it out!

Low Head Hydroelectric Opportunities for Ditch and Reservoir Companies (Pre-Convention Workshop), February 2011

2011-01-20T12:11:00.002-07:00

When: Wednesday, February 16, 2011 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District
220 Water Avenue.
Berthoud, Colorado
Cost: $100 for DARCA/CWC members; $200 for non-members
If you are registered for the 2011 convention , please subtract $25 from the workshop price.

The Low Head Hydro workshop is the pre-convention workshop before the 9th Annual DARCA Convention in Loveland, CO on February 17-19, 2011. The workshop expands on last year’s Micro Hydropower Opportunities workshop held in Durango and covers low head hydro technologies for canal companies. Low head hydro typically refers to sites with between 5 and 30 feet of head. New, innovative, cost effective technologies are being developed that may make low head hydro a viable source of renewable power for ditch companies in Colorado.

The workshop will begin with a brief overview of low head hydro and assessing a site for feasibility and potential. Conditions that create a good low head hydro site and common obstacles for development will be highlighted. Low head hydro turbines will be introduced and each turbine’s strength and limitations will be discussed.

A representative from the Governor’s Energy Office will explain two new programs related to hydropower: 1) The MOU signed with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the resulting FERC streamlining pilot project; and 2) the newly formed Renewable Energy Development Team. A consultant with the FERC permitting experience will speak about his experiences with the FERC licensing exemption process.

Other topics will include financing low head hydro projects, developing a project on a Bureau of Reclamation canal or reservoir, and utility interconnection issues. Results of a recent study on the low head hydro potential in Colorado will be shared.

Finally, case studies will be presented by irrigation district managers, and turbine manufacturers. They will share their experience in developing a low head hydro site, and obstacles that were overcome. Case studies include installations in Oregon, New Mexico and Arizona. Turbine manufacturers will be available to explain their technologies.

A highly qualified group of experts from all over the country will address the participants. They include:

Craig Ullmann, Applegate Group, CO
Lindsay George, Applegate Group, CO
Joe Blankenship, Natel Energy, CA
Francisco Flores, Governor’s Energy Office, CO

Dan Zimmerle, CSU Department of Mechanical Engineering, CO

Gary Esslinger, Elephant Butte Irrigation District, NM

Burt Hamner, Hydrovolts, WA

Jay Maher, Kleinschmidt Associates, PA

For information regarding workshop call 970-412-1960.
You can register using the form found here: http://www.darca.org/RegistrationForm.pdf

Sustainability Champion Award.

2010-12-27T15:30:00.001-07:00

We would like to share with you that the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Colorado Environmental Partnership (CEP) have partnered with CORE and ColoradoBiz Magazine to bring the 4th annual Sustainability Champion Award. The Sustainability Champion Award recognizes teams who have gone above and beyond required duties in the creation and implementation of a program or initiative that has made a measurable contribution to the environment, the economy, and society.

We are soliciting applications from small, medium and large Colorado organizations, including government sector. The deadline for applications is January 6, 2011.

The announcement can be downloaded here: http://www.corecolorado.org/Default.aspx?pageId=510079

Colorado WIND rebates increased!

2010-12-27T15:16:00.002-07:00

Just before the end of 2010, The Colorado Governor's Energy office announced the INCREASE in wind rebates for both residential and commercial installations.

Never has there been a better time to consider installing wind, and being incented to do so.

• Residential Wind Rebates: $2/watt up to 5kW, maximum rebate of $10,000
• Commercial Wind Rebates: $2/watt up to 15kW, maximum rebate of $30,000 (turbine cannot be greater than 50kW)

In some parts of the state, partnerships with the utility could make it $3/watt!

These incentives are in force now - and available until they're gone. Check your eligibility out today at www.rechargecolorado.com

Green Jobs grant - COLORADO

2010-12-27T14:45:00.002-07:00

Green Jobs Colorado Advisory Council

Green Jobs Training Program Grant Opportunity Announcement

The Green Jobs Colorado Advisory Council has released the Green Jobs Training Program grant applications through an Interagency Competitive Grant Application on December 22, 2010. Applications will be due on January 31, 2011. Please look for the application posting on the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment website under the Colorado Workforce Development Council (CWDC) Green Jobs Advisory Council Grant Opportunity: http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite/CDLE-EmployTrain/CDLE/1248095317987. All information about the grant opportunity will be posted on the CWDC website.

Overview about Green Jobs Training Program

The Green Jobs training program was established by HB 10-1333 in order to ensure Colorado’s competitive advantage in the New Energy Economy and ensure that future workforce supply can meet the oncoming demand for green job skills in the New Energy Economy. The program will provide up to $755,302 through an Interagency Competitive Grant process for renewable energy and energy efficiency industry driven training projects that are likely to result in job placement and or business expansion.

Focus of Training Grants

Pursuant to HB 10-133, grant applicants are required to focus on one of the following:

Development of a new training programs, strategies and curricula in the renewable energy and energy efficiency industries where there is demonstrated industry demand.

Implementation or expansion of existing renewable energy and energy efficiency training programs, strategies, or curricula.

Complement existing green job training initiatives experiencing a shortfall in resources.
According to HB 10-133 must seek to provide at least one of the following training methods:

Certificate programs that meet industry recognized standards in energy efficiency or renewable energy industries.

On-the job training programs that combine workplace training with related instruction by persons qualified or licensed in the field or trade.

Skills upgrading or retraining, with a commitment by an employer or group of employer to employ a qualified individual who successful completes the training.

Required Partners

HB 10-1333 states that the Green Job Colorado Training Program grant applicants must demonstrate a partnership between three groups:
1. A Certified Training Provider, including but not limited to: Community College(s),Vocational school(s), Youth Corps, or a United States Department of Labor registered Apprenticeship Program(s).
2. Federally Designated Workforce Regions
3. One or more representatives from either: employers, educators, training providers, economic development organization, Youth Corp or other workforce organizations. Industry driven partnerships will be assigned a higher rating.

An Interagency Competitive Grant Application requires a governmental entity to be the lead fiscal agent

For additional information please see the full legislation posted on the CDLE/CWDC website.

Federal Tax Credit - energy

2010-12-20T12:12:00.002-07:00

In reviewing the federal tax credit extension that they just did, I see that the energy credits maximum limit went down from $1500 (2009-2010) to $500 (2011) cumulative. So, take FULL advantage of this credit (IRS FORM 5695) and purchase your items in 2010! Check out REBATES also on www.rechargecolorado.com to see if you can't get a double bonus for buying your home repair supplies before the years' end.

RFP - Weatherization - CO

2010-12-20T12:01:00.000-07:00

Energy Outreach Colorado Seeks Proposals
Energy Outreach Colorado (EOC) is soliciting proposals for construction services for the Multi-family Weatherization Program funded through the Governor's Energy Office (GEO). The proposals should be from vendors to provide HVAC, lighting, building envelope, and other energy efficiency measures. EOC acknowledges the short notice and requests that vendors pay special attention to deadlines and construction schedules.

This funding cycle EOC has identified 12 low-income multi-family properties that will be receiving weatherization services. The properties are located in various areas of Colorado:
• Craig- 1 property
• Denver- 6 properties
• Edgewater- 1 property
• Granby- 1 property
• Grand Junction- 1 property
• Greeley- 1 property
• Lakewood- 1 property
EOC has conducted an energy audit on each property and has identified the energy improvements needed. The work done on these properties will improve the comfort, safety and energy efficiency of Colorado's low-income housing.

Please go to www.energyoutreach.org to review the RFP for each property. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the project manager listed in each RFP.

grant opportunity for ag and small business - for alternative energy

2010-12-16T13:31:00.003-07:00

USDA announces the REAP program

This is an opportunity for agricultural or small business operations to install alternative energy or energy efficiency measures in their business. There are two deadlines - 12/31/10 and 3/31/11, with priority being given to the earlier.

If you are a small business or agricultural operation in CO and have been considering energy efficiency or renewable energy, consider applying for this grant or grant/loan combination.

For this particular offering, non-profits and municipalities are not eligible to apply.

http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/co and click on RENEWABLE ENERGY (dates are incorrect on flier, but info is all the same) Contact info for the regional coordinators are on the flier as well.

Small government in CO looking for Solar options?

2010-12-16T12:51:00.002-07:00

Renewable Energy in Municipal Buildings

This grant opportunity will provide funding to Colorado communities who did not receive an award of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The funding may be used to install solar panels on a facility owned by a city, town or county. State government, colleges and universities, schools, and special districts are not eligible for this grant.

For more information about this request for applications
go to www.rechargecolorado.com and look under "Open Grants."

Sedgwick County Commissioners seeking bids

2010-12-14T13:20:00.004-07:00

Sedgwick County (CO) Commissioners seeking bids on installing a Ground Source Heat Pump for their county's courthouse. They are excited to utilize the resources that they have around them (space), and capitalize on the efficiency of a GSHP system for upgrading from their current boiler.

This will be a whole-building retrofit.

We're excited to see the savings this will bring to the monthly heating/cooling bills!

If you are a certified GSHP system installer near Sedgwick County CO, you might consider giving them a call. 970-474-2485. (RFP is not posted on-line as of this time)

Air Sealing Technician Training coming to town

2010-12-07T12:00:00.002-07:00

What: Air-sealing training for contractors (3.5 CEU's)
When: 12/15/10 - 8am - 4pm
Where: CSU Extension Office - 914 E. Railroad, 80701
How Much: Free (normally $68 due to a mini-grant from the Governor's Energy Office)

US Weatherizing is providing hands-on training in air sealing best practices and thermal boundary assessment funded by an Energy Efficiency Training grant. This is a unique opportunity for all contractors to add cost effective air sealing to their services.

BPI certified contractors will earn 3.5 CEUs for this session. All attending will receive a certificate of completion. Don’t miss this opportunity for essential air sealing training and building science concepts for energy efficiency, indoor air quality and occupant comfort.

There are 110 million homes in the US, about 109 million of them need air sealing.

Energy consultants, insulation contractors, renewable energy contractors, builders and remodelers can all benefit from this technical training on the most cost effective energy efficiency measure. Cost effective air sealing can reduce home energy use by 4% to 8% according to a report from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

The full-day, hands-on training is hosted by CSU Extension December 15 only at no cost to contractors in NE Colorado (normally $200) and includes lunch and materials.

Location: CSU Extension office conference room, 914 E. Railroad, Fort Morgan 80701
Register online to reserve your space: http://www.usweatherizing.com/19843.html
Or phone 303-339-0878

8:00 to 8:05 Introductions
8:05 to 10:00 Introduction to Building Science and Performance Analysis
10:00 to 10:30 2009 IECC Code for Air Sealing and Thermal Boundary
10:30 to 10:45 Break
10:45 to 12:00 Field Identification / Energy Star Bypass Checklist
12:00 to 12:30 Lunch - A light lunch will be provided if pre-registered
12:30 to 1:30 Attic Air Sealing Standard Work Specifications
1:30 to 3:00 Air Sealing Tools, Materials, Hands-on Training
3:00 to 3:30 Wrap-up, questions and answers

Who attended air sealing training recently? Thermalcraft Insulation, AboutSavingHeat.com, Energy Delivery Services, Bestway Insulation, Big Al’s Insulation, RG Insulation, Energywise Consulting, Sun Country Energy Solutions, Beck Building Company, Gridpoint (SRE3), and dozens of other leading energy efficiency businesses.

Webinar - Energy Broker - CO

2010-12-06T11:14:00.003-07:00

CSU Extension posts "Energy Broker" webinar, listing resources available in and throughout the state of CO for all of your energy needs.

Watch the recorded webinar here (90 minutes)

http://connect.extension.iastate.edu/p92574027/

As always, you can build your own energy profile online at:

www.rechargecolorado.com

Here's to saving you money on your energy bill!
Tim

kill-a-watt loan program

2010-12-01T14:03:00.003-07:00

Hi Northeastern CO residents.

Wondering how much energy that fridge is REALLY using? How about that old TV set?

Now you can figure it out. Anything that has a plug can be tested. Borrow our Kill-A-Watt meter (NO CHARGE!) and you can find out. Just plug your appliance in to the Kill-a-Watt meter, then plug the meter in to the outlet. For as long as you leave it plugged in, it will tell you how much you've used. Multiply out to show monthly/yearly usage.

Why not take advantage of upgrading the appliances that are energy hogs - especially when there are rebates available to help you get them cheaper. Take advantage of holiday pricing and get the best of both worlds. Rebates available on www.rechargecolorado.com (click on REBATES) in the upper right corner).

Kill-a-Watt meter available for loan - just call: Tim Edgar: 970-522-3200. No charge for the use (unless you break it, of course)

your chance to make a difference

2010-12-01T13:52:00.003-07:00

December Pepsi Challenge.

Vote each day with each email address you have.

www.refresheverything.com

Once you have an account and are logged in, search for:
Feed Inspire

Then, vote daily for:
Feed, Inspire & Educate all ages thru Extension in Eastern Colorado

You can also text:
104423 to the number 73774 (PEPSI)

Help us bring $50,000 to Northeastern CO Extension.

Thanks for your vote.
Tim

HVAC / Insulation installer update training

2010-11-30T12:08:00.003-07:00

What:
The Colorado Governor’s Energy Office invites you to attend a free 2 hour event that will provide you with a toolkit of useful information on current consumer rebates as well as techniques on promoting and selling energy efficiency to your customers.

Why:
This is your opportunity to learn and receive:
 Professional sales advice on selling energy efficiency, and driving business through the promotion of rebates and incentives
 An informational “toolkit” with relevant information on energy efficiency, including the consumer orientated “Guide to Energy Efficiency” to share with your customers.
 An update on available state and utility rebates and incentives in your area
 Overview of the Recharge Colorado website and rebate application process

When:
Tue Dec 7 - 7am - 9:30 am

Where:
920 Barlow Road, Fort Morgan. MCC - Founder's Room

RSVP:
Please RSVP at: www.eebco.org/outreach

MSEI grant window extended

2010-11-29T12:02:00.001-07:00

Main Street Efficiency Initiative Small-Scale Program Grant

This grant opportunity provides American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding to local partnerships programs that result in the reduction of energy used to heat, cool, light, and operate local businesses and create local jobs throughout the State of Colorado. The Request for Application (RFA) targets competitive grants of $7,500 each to promote and to help implement a Main Street Efficiency program. The participating businesses in each of the awarded towns will have access to a rebate funding pool to be shared among all awarded communities. This grant is not intended to support well-established or mature Main Street efficiency efforts.

For more information about this request for applications
click here: www.rechargecolorado.com, then Grant Opportunities (bottom right) and look under "November Grants."

The new deadline is now Nov 30.

Bonds available

2010-11-29T10:01:00.002-07:00

Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds

The GEO is now accepting applications for projects specifically focused on private use of Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs). This Colorado allocation of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funded QECBs is intended to promote clean energy projects in the private sector, benefiting businesses and/or individuals. Possibilities may include (but are not limited to) 3rd party renewable energy finance, special district development finance, or support for residential or commercial finance assistance programs. The GEO encourages creativity within the parameters of privately used applications and concepts of QECB issuances.

For more information about this request for applications
click here: http://rechargecolorado.com/index.php/programs_overview/finance_programs/

Deadline for application is 12/17/2010.

Rocky Mounty Climate Network conference Dec 15 & 16 2010

2010-11-16T12:02:00.003-07:00

What: Inaugural Conference of the Colorado Climate Network

When: 12:30, Wednesday, December 15, through 12:00, Thursday, December 16, 2010

Where: The American Mountaineering Center, 710 10th Street, Golden, CO

Who should come:
Local government climate, sustainability, and energy program managers and staff; local government managers and elected officials; Community energy coordinators; and Staff of non-profits working with local governments on climate, sustainability, and energy programs.

Why: Join others to build a vital, functional network to support local climate programs. Interact, get informed and inspired, and network.

How: Information on the agenda, registration, and lodging is available at
www.coclimatenetwork.org/programs/index.html.

Energy Star Summit - Denver, CO Dec 8 & 9 2010

2010-11-16T11:54:00.003-07:00

If you have a stake in residential energy efficiency, you can't afford to miss out on the Colorado ENERGY STAR Summit & Awards Banquet. Learn more about this valuable event at http://energystarsummit.org/.

From the fundamentals of "House as a System," air sealing and insulation, moisture, ventilation, and mechanical systems, to more advanced technical topics, you'll learn the best, most practical information on building science available.

Who Should Attend?
Builders, contractors, home energy raters, remodelers, weatherization crews, utilities staff,
program administrators, HVAC specialists, and home performance professionals.

When?
Dec 8 and 9, 2010

Where?
Marriott Denver Tech Center
3900 South Syracuse Street
Denver, CO 80237

How?
http://energystarsummit.org/node/79407

Recycling grants available - CO

2010-11-16T11:10:00.001-07:00

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment working through its Pollution Prevention Advisory Board and the Assistance Committee to the board, is requesting applications for grants that will be awarded from the Recycling Resources Economic Opportunity (RREO) Fund, to purchase equipment that will process residential/commercial recyclable material to create a feedstock suitable for end-use manufacturing; or equipment employed directly in end-use manufacturing that uses residential/commercial recycled materials in Colorado.

In order to incentivize business and job growth in the recycling industry in Colorado, this grant is being offered to help offset the costs of equipment that is to be used for creating an end-use product made of recycled materials collected and manufactured in Colorado. The grant is designed to aid local entities, or those entities who want to locate their business in Colorado, that will utilize recycled products. Equipment may be utilized in the direct manufacture of a recycled content product or for the purpose of final processing of the recycled materials needed in the manufacturing process.

This is a special interim grant solicitation only. Money awarded must be spent by June 30, 2011 and can only be used for the purchase of the aforementioned equipment. The equipment must also be installed and fully operational by June 30, 2011.

Applications are due by December 10th at 5:00pm. Please go to their website for more information and the application.
http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/oeis/p2_program/specialgrants.html

Thank you
Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment

Biofuels Community Forum 11/22/10 - Longmont, CO

2010-11-16T10:55:00.002-07:00

You are invited to a participate in a Community Forum to Discuss How to Meet our Biofuels Goals by 2022

When: Monday, November 22, 2010 from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM

Where: Boulder County Fairgrounds, 9595 Nelson Road, Longmont, CO 80501 (signs will be posted to guide you to appropriate building)

Who: In addition to audience participation, panelists include: John Stulp, Colorado Agriculture Commissioner: Michael Bowman, 25 X 25; Professor Jan Leach, Colorado State University; Professor John Dorgan, Colorado School of Mines; Professor Alan Weimer, University of Colorado; Carrie Atiyeh, Zeachem; Sergio Mohedas, Rentech; Charles Eggert, OPX BioProducts; and Bryan Schramm, Sundrop Fuels.

What: USDA is developing a comprehensive strategy to help recharge the rural American economy through the development of a successful biofuels market and we need your feedback.

SEATING IS LIMITED so please RSVP to Linda Neel at linda.neel@co.usda.gov as soon as possible. If you have questions, please contact Trudy Kareus, State Executive Director of the Farm Service Agency, at trudy.kareus@co.usda.gov or 720-544-2876.

CO - Rebates still available, now easier!

2010-11-10T15:04:00.001-07:00

Contact: Seth Portner, seth.portner@state.co.us 303-866-2201

Governor's Energy Office Making Rebates Easier

Redemption Process Gets Easier as $5 Million Still Available
Denver, Colorado, November 10th, 2010 - The Governor's Energy Office (GEO) has made it easier for Coloradans to redeem more than $5 million in energy efficiency rebates still available across the state.

The GEO launched its Recharge Colorado campaign and website in spring 2010 to help consumers and businesses cash in on $18 million of American Reinvestment and Recovery Act funds designed to promote energy efficiency. Although there has been great demand for rebates, millions of dollars still remain available for:
• ENERGY STAR Appliances
• Gas Condensing Furnaces (Up to $500)
• Insulation and Air Sealing (Up to $600)
• Duct Sealing (Up to $150)
• Energy Audits (Up to $100)
• Energy Monitors (Up to $100)
• Renewable Energy technologies
The GEO urges Coloradans to take advantage of the rebates before funds are exhausted and winter drives up heating bills.
"The rebates are an excellent way to jumpstart cash savings through energy efficiency," said Tom Plant, executive director of the GEO. "With winter around the corner, services like duct sealing and energy audits will uncover even more savings hidden inside your home or business."
To make it easier for Coloradans to cash in on this opportunity, the GEO has streamlined the redemption process for appliance rebates. Under the previous system, a rebate reservation was required before buying the appliance. The new process works much like other consumer retail rebates by allowing a consumer to first buy the qualifying appliance, or a service like an energy audit or duct sealing, then redeem the rebate by completing the application on the RechargeColorado.com website. There will no longer be a reservation required for appliances. People who are currently on the wait list for appliance rebates will receive their funds as soon as their required paper work with proof of purchase is sent in and processed.
The new process also changes the distribution of rebate funding. Prior to the change, appliance rebate funds were divided by type of appliance. Each category of appliance received a specific amount of rebate funds, limiting, for instance, the number of dishwasher rebates. Under the new process, funding for all appliance rebates is pooled together, allowing the rebates to flow toward the appliances where demand is highest.
Rebates are available for the following appliances:
• Refrigerators ($50 without recycling, $100 with proof of recycling)
• Clothes Washers ($75)
• High Performance Gas Storage Water Heaters ($200)
• Dishwashers ($50)
• Gas Boilers ($400)
Rebates will be available until funds run out. To check if rebates are still available, check out the "$$ countdown" at RechargeColorado.com and click on the Learn More button under Appliance Rebates.
In some cases, rebates from Recharge Colorado can be combined with local, utility, and manufacturer incentives for even greater savings-all of which can be found with one simple resource: RechargeColorado.com.
###

Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency loans for CO schools

2010-11-09T16:09:00.002-07:00

The Governor's Energy Office (GEO)recently announced they are continuing to accept loan applications for the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency for Schools (REES) (in Colorado) now through November 30, 2010.

These available funds are a result of House Bill 09-1312. School districts that meet the defined energy efficiency measures and other select criteria are eligible. Districts looking to implement renewable energy projects or purchase energy-efficient buses are encouraged to apply for this low interest loan. A Renewable Energy Project Team must be assembled before submitting the application.

For more information, rules and application please visit: http://rechargecolorado.com/index.php/commercial_and_public/k-12_schools/

Here's to energy-efficient-education! Do your part - spread the word!

help support green education in CO

2010-11-09T11:56:00.002-07:00

Hi, take a few minutes and vote for this. Then do so again tomorrow, and every day till the end of November. If they win, 40 schools in CO will get interactive solar units for their classrooms.

http://mygridsolar.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=52b8fbbfdc26db4fc9959f1eb&id=f28c8868a3&e=2b03fe4814 (Then, search for POWER SOLUTIONS, and vote for the one that comes up in ORANGE - Build 40 interactive solar units...)

Have a great day,
Tim

ReCharge Colorado looking for webdesigner

2010-10-25T12:18:00.001-06:00

Recharge Colorado Stewardship Grant

The GEO is now accepting applications for the Recharge Colorado Stewardship Grant. The grant will result in one award and will provide approximately $1 million in funding and ownership of the Recharge Colorado website and database to the grantee. The "Recharge Colorado Steward" (RCS) will become responsible for managing the Recharge Colorado program and build on it to ensure that it remains an innovative resource after the grant funding is spent.

Recharge Colorado is a comprehensive information campaign whose centerpiece is RechargeColorado.com, a website that houses a significant amount of information about energy efficiency and renewable energy in Colorado and presents that information in a simple and clear manner. The site provides Coloradans with access to trusted, simple and accurate information about energy efficiency and renewable energy measures including how they work, how they compare, and what financial incentives exist to help pay for them and what service providers exist in the user's geographic location.

The RCS will share Recharge Colorado's mission of providing Coloradans with a trusted source for actionable energy efficiency and renewable energy information and will possess a strong and innovative vision for maintaining Recharge Colorado into perpetuity. The successful proposal will have a clear and boundary-pushing plan for Recharge Colorado's future, including feasible ideas for funding the project long term and enhancing the current platform to take it to the next level. The successful proposal will demonstrate the RCS' detailed understanding of the opportunity for a resource like Recharge Colorado in the current energy market. The successful proposal will cement Recharge Colorado's role as a national leader in the New Energy Economy.

For more information about this request for applications
go to www.rechargecolorado.com, click on grant opportunities in the bottom right corner, and look under "October Grants."

###

Energy Exp 2010

2010-10-25T09:35:00.002-06:00

What: Energy Expo 2010 - focusing on home energy efficiency

When: Nov 6 2010 - 9:00-2:30

Where: Northeastern Jr. College - Sterling, CO 80751 (Tennant Art Gallery)

Why: To learn about efficiency options for all aspects of energy for your home. Info for commercial and agricultural also available, as well as renewable energy resources.

How much: $10 before 11/3. $15 thereafter. Price includes your lunch.

How to register: (970) 522-3200 x 276 or email: tim.edgar@colostate.edu

kill-a-watt loan program announced

2010-10-25T09:27:00.003-06:00

Not only can you borrow a kill-a-watt at the Sterling Public Library, you can now also borrow one from your Community Energy Coordinator.

What is a "kill-a-watt" - you might ask? I'm glad you did! A kill-a-watt is a meter that you plug into the wall then plug your appliance in to. It tells you exactly how much energy is being used, even when the appliance is "not in use".

Why would I borrow one - you might also ask? Well - so you can learn how much energy your appliances are using, so you can learn the efficiency of your appliances, and so you can verify the need to upgrade while the rebates are still active to the more efficient energy-star appliances.

Read about it here:
http://www.ext.colostate.edu/energy/killawatt.html

Call Tim today at 970-522-3200 x 276 to reserve your slot for the use of the kill-a-watt meter.

insulation rebate EXTENDED - COLORADO!

2010-10-04T13:20:00.004-06:00

Colorado Governor's Energy office EXTENDS it's rebate offering for insulation. Through Oct 15, you can continue to receive a 40% (of the job cost) rebate (UP TO the state maximum of $600).

There has never been a better time to tie up those lose ends in your home. Winter is around the corner. Be ready, and DO IT FOR LESS MONEY!

Go Here: www.rechargecolorado.com and TYPE IN zip code and click on "GO". Work your way through for "INSULATION" - specific to your area in Colorado.

Why not? Do it for less! RESERVE YOUR REBATE BEFORE 10/15! Do the work before 12/31.

Waste Tire recycling Grant - CO

2010-09-23T09:09:00.001-06:00

The Waste Tire Program, managed by the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, has posted the application for the Recycling Incentives Grants, which are public projects using Recycled Waste Tire Products. Deadline to submit an application is October 15, 2010. Please visit our web site for more information about this grant program and the Illegal Waste Tire Cleanup Grants.

http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/oeis/wtprog/wastetire.html

Solar for Non-Profit Organizations Grant - Colorado

2010-09-22T16:47:00.001-06:00

This grant opportunity provides American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding to non-profit organizations (NPOs) that provide Colorado's must vulnerable populations with emergency, health, job training and critical family services. Funding will be for the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) or solar hot water systems (solar thermal) owned by NPOs located in Colorado. NPOs that can demonstrate the savings generated by the PV or solar thermal system will allow the entity to increase services, increase participants served or provide additional benefit to the community will be scored highly. Final organization eligibility and system requirements are available in the Request for Application.

For more information, click on www.rechargecolorado.com. Go to GRANT OPPORTUNITIES (bottom right corner) and look under "September Grants."

RESIDENTIAL (CO) CONTRACTOR TRAINING - 9/29/10

2010-09-22T16:43:00.001-06:00

A panel of residential energy efficiency business and policy experts will present at the Colorado Energy Efficiency Contractor Summit on Wednesday, Sept. 29 at Xcel Energy's downtown Denver headquarters at 1800 Larimer.

The half-day summit from 7:30 to 11:30 AM will include presentations on current rebates available through Xcel Energy, the Governor's Energy Office and other local utilities and municipalities,
updates on the statewide effort to develop energy efficiency financing mechanisms,
the addition of "Green Features" listings on the MLS, as well as updates on HOMESTAR, the Better Buildings Program, and other policy issues affecting residential contractors and the residential energy efficiency industry. The event will conclude with a special program on sales strategies for contractors working directly with consumers.

"Contractors are often the most important point of contact for consumers considering residential energy efficiency improvements" said Shane Flansburg, Executive Director of the Energy Efficiency Business Coalition. "We're excited to be partnering with the Governor's Energy Office and Xcel Energy to create an event that specifically addresses the unique needs of contractors in order to make them more effective in their day-to-day business. Educated contractors are a key component in the adoption of residential energy efficiency standards that benefit consumers, our environment and our economy."

Participants will learn about opportunities to be more profitable in their contracting business this fall and winter while promoting consumer awareness and understanding of the value of residential energy efficiency improvements. This summit is intended for contractors currently active in the residential energy efficiency sector.

The event is sponsored by the Energy Efficiency Business Coalition, Xcel Energy, the Governor's Energy Office and the Colorado Retrofit Working Group. More information can be obtained through contacting the organization at retrofitworkinggroup@gmail.com. The Colorado Energy Efficiency Summit is a free event, but registration is required. Participants can RSVP on-line at www.eebco.org/summit.

CO Rebate - It's NOT too late!

2010-09-17T14:30:00.003-06:00

Colorado residents on your primary home - it's NOT too late to register for a rebate. If you're thinking about purchasing a fridge, washer, or dishwasher, a gas-condensing furnace, a home energy audit, insulation, residential PV, Solar, or Wind, there ARE still rebates available.

Step 1: go to www.rechargecolorado.com and register - top right corner. You must register BEFORE you purchase the item you'll be getting a rebate for.

Step 2: Print off your registration number.

Step 3: Purchase your item. Have the store fill out their info and the model #.

Step 4: Mail, with all necessary supporting info to the Governors' Energy Office (all info is on the printoff you did in #2)

Step 5: Cash your rebate check.

I just helped someone with it this week, and they saved hundreds of dollars, for 15 mins worth of work. Multiple rebates per house ok, too, if purchasing multiple units.

AND - if you buy insulation, doors, windows, and some roofing, you'll also qualify for a federal tax credit.

Are you ready to save some SERIOUS money on upgrading your home? AVAILABLE TODAY!

When asked "referral source" just list - Community Energy Coordinator rgn 1

Energy Efficiency Expansion and Training (EEET) Grant - CO

2010-09-17T14:07:00.001-06:00

This grant opportunity provides American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding to Colorado businesses and non-profits that advance residential energy efficiency. The intent of this grant is to help small, energy-focused businesses train new employees, expand into new service territories, or branch out into additional opportunities within the residential energy efficiency field. EEET funds will go towards supporting these Colorado businesses' ability to provide their services as well as increase consumer awareness.

For more information about this request for applications
go to www.rechargecolorado.com, click on GRANT OPPORTUNITIES in the bottom right corner, and look under "September Grants."

Innovation Funding for Energy Efficiency Grant - CO

2010-09-17T14:03:00.001-06:00

This grant opportunity provides American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding to assist Colorado businesses with the costs of promoting innovative residential energy efficiency products or services that are commercially available but require additional investment for successful expansion.

For more information about this request for applications
go to www.rechargecolorado.com, click on GRANT OPPORTUNITIES in the bottom right corner, and look under "September Grants."

Energy and Water Conservation Improvements Grant

2010-09-10T12:10:00.002-06:00

The Colorado Governor's Energy Office announces a new round of grant funding! This grant opportunity provides American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding to state agencies that will undertake energy or water conservation measures through a new or existing Energy Performance Contract (EPC). The grant may be used to buy down energy or water conservation measures to make a marginal EPC economically viable, or to directly fund these measures if an EPC has been determined to be an impractical approach. SHORT WINDOW, so contact TIM today at 970-522-3200 x 276 or RICH at 970-466-2355 to see if you qualify.

For more information about this request for applications
www.rechargecolorado.com/index.php/resources_overview/funding_opportunities/ then click on SEPTEMBER GRANTS

Institute for the Built Environment

2010-09-08T16:40:00.002-06:00

CSU has an institute for builders, and that specifically, "green" builders.

FALL COURSE DATES (Starting September, 2010):

Green Building Certificate Program Sept 7 - Nov 30, 2010 Denver, Colo
Green Homes Certificate Program Sept 15 - Dec 1, 2010 Loveland, Colo
Introduction to Green Roofs Spring, 2011 Denver, Colo

ONLINE COURSES:
Green Building Certificate Program Sept 28 - Dec 14, 2010
Green Homes Certificate Program Oct 4 - Dec 21, 2010

Go online and do a SUSTAINABLE BUILDING WORKFORCE SURVEY and get entered to receive one registration for the certificte program complimentary!

www.ibe.colostate.edu

Recharge Colorado Innovation Grant announced

2010-09-01T09:11:00.001-06:00

This grant opportunity provides American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding to non-profits, local governments, students, and utilities that wish to promote the Governor's Energy Office Recharge Colorado programs with innovative local outreach strategies. This round will include funding for outreach to energy managers, K-12 teachers and classrooms, homeowners, home renters, energy efficiency and renewable energy service providers, and small businesses.

For more information about this request for applications go to www.rechargecolorado.com then click on "grant opportunities" and look under "August Grants."

Governor’s Energy Office Hosting Free High Performance Building Webinar: Making the Grade: Co-CHPS & LEED for Schools 101

2010-08-31T08:52:00.001-06:00

Denver, Colorado, August 30, 2010 ¬ — The Governor’s Energy Office today announced the next webinar in a series of events aimed at promoting high performance, energy efficient building in Colorado.

The Governor’s Energy Office High Performance Building Program provides free technical assistance to public building new construction and major renovation projects, disseminates tools and best practices and provides training and educational opportunities related to energy efficient, green building.

At your desk, the Governor’s Energy Office High Performance Building Program will illuminate two alternatives in third-party rating systems for High Performance K-12 schools. The free webinar will outline the history and process of each system, in addition to their differences and similarities. Attendees will gain an understanding of the credits and prerequisites and which projects are appropriate for each system. Created for designers, contractors, and school officials, this webinar is appropriate for building professionals and owners from across the K-12 spectrum.

Date & Time: Thursday, September 23, 2010; 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM MDT

For more information and registration, please visit https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/732594377

Davis-Bacon compliance training - by DOE, 8/24/10

2010-08-24T09:35:00.001-06:00

Title: Introduction to Davis-Bacon compliance

Date: Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Time: 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM EDT

This is a webinar introduction to Davis-Bacon compliance for Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grants (EECBG), State Energy Program (SEP), and Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) grant recipients and their subrecipients.

After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Webinar.

Space is limited.
Reserve your Webinar seat now at:
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/906587560

Recycle - Sterling - 8/21

2010-08-20T08:20:00.002-06:00

Don't miss your chance to recycle!
The first and third Saturday of each month is recycle day in Sterling, CO.

Bring your #1 and #2 plastics (rinsed, no lids), your newspapers, your aluminum, and your corrugated cardboard to the Wal-Mart parking lot. Look for the commercial-size dumpster. The kind folks from the Sterling Correctional Facility will help you sort into the correct locations. They also accept plastic bags.

Load up, do your part. 8am - noon, tomorrow. Make a difference!

Air Sealing Technician Training coming to town

2010-08-19T16:51:00.000-06:00

Air Sealing Technician Training this month in Denver, Steamboat, Frisco, Montrose, Monte Vista, Fort Morgan.
Who Should Attend: Employees of Insulation Companies, General Contractors, Handyman Services, and Renewable Energy providers.

Class Outcomes: In this hands-on class you will be introduced to cost effective Air Sealing technical training.

Acquire these essential Air Sealing Skills in 1 day:
1. Overview of building science concepts, building diagnostics and insulation concepts.
2. Locating and prioritizing the most critical air leakage areas in residential construction
3. Air Sealing best practices and protocols for residential light frame construction
4. Avoid creating hazardous conditions and improve indoor air quality
5. Learn to sell air sealing as the most cost effective energy efficiency measure

Space is limited to 10 per class

Fort Morgan Sept. 2

Cost: $68. Includes course instruction, course material, practice materials, and lunch

REGISTER at http://www.usweatherizing.com/19843.html

Alternative Energy -CO- resource library

2010-08-19T15:07:00.002-06:00

The CO Dept of Ag ACRE grant info site has a wonderful library of resources on all-things-alternative-energy done aroud the state. Several reports available at:

http://www.colorado.gov/ag/energy/library#wn

Have a GREAT day!

Above Building Code grant announced

2010-08-18T16:53:00.002-06:00

COLORADO Governor's Energy Office announces Above Building Code Grant

This grant opportunity provides American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding to local communities/governments, cities, counties, non-profits and/or utilities for the purpose of implementing a voluntary or mandatory, local ABC high performance program in which the energy efficiency requirements for new construction exceed the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code. (translation - updating your city eletrical codes)

For more information about this request for applications
go to www.rechargecolorado.com and click on Grants in the bottom right corner and look under "August Grants."

CO AG - ACRE Grant availability

2010-08-18T16:44:00.001-06:00

This Colorado Department of Agriculture ACRE grant opportunity for agricultural renewable energy proposals might be of interest to you or your audience:

http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite?blobcol=urldata&blobheader=text%2Fhtml&blobkey=id&blobtable=MungoBlobs&blobwhere=1251641999114&ssbinary=true

Grants available for: research; participation; or feasibility.

Governor's Energy Office announces High Performance Building grants

2010-08-18T16:35:00.002-06:00

COLORADO Governors Energy Office announces: High Performance Building Program

This grant opportunity provides Recovery Act funding for soft costs associated with achieving High Performance Design for partners accepted into the High Performance Building Program. Funds can be used for such tasks as enhanced commissioning, third-party building rating system certification costs, energy modeling as a design tool, and other fees that might otherwise prevent a partner from utilizing these services to their full extent.

For more information about this request for applications
go to: www.rechargecolorado.com , click GRANTS in bottom right corner and look under "August Grants."

Recycling Resources Economic Opportunity Grants

2010-08-05T13:27:00.000-06:00

Recycling Resources Economic Opportunity Grants: "Recycling Resources Economic Opportunity Fund Grants Program
The Recycling Resources Economic Opportunity Act (HB 07-1288) created a recycling grant program (RREO Grant Program) is intended to fund implementation projects that promote economic development through the productive management of recyclable materials that would otherwise be treated as discards. Projects that meet this goal are designed to implement source reduction, recycling, beneficial use/re-use, anaerobic digestion, or composting, for a wide variety of materials.
The following are approved grants for Fiscal Year 2011. These projects are scheduled to begin on July 1, 2010."
SOURCE: Colorado Dept of Public Health and Environment (www.cdphe.state.co.us/oeis/p2_program/rreogrants.html)

List pared to show only those from the GPA region:

Town of Haxtun - Phillips County Recycling - gets $33,880!

3 roll-offs to recycle paper, plastics, tin, and aluminum between the three municipalities and two school districts in Phillips County. Local school teachers will also use this to educate students to importance of recycling.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Register for a FREE home energy audit!

2010-07-28T11:32:00.002-06:00

Come visit the ENERGY booth at any one of the six Northeastern Colorado fairs during 2010, and register to win a FREE home energy audit!

The Golden Plains Area Renewable Energy team will be providing information, activities for kids, and free give-a-ways. There will be one complete home audit given away per county, your only qualification is that you live in the county you register in.

So, whether you come to the Washington, Phillips, or Sedgwick County fair this week, the Morgan or Logan county fair next week, or the Yuma County fair the following week, be sure to stop by the ENERGY booth for your chance to win!

Colorado Wind Economy growing!

2010-07-28T11:28:00.002-06:00

Denver (AP) -
A German-based renewable energy compay is moving its U.S. wind-energy headquarters from Cleveland to Boulder in September.
The company, juwi, already has its U.S. solar headquarters in Boulder. The move of its wind-energy headquarters is expected to bring 20 jobs to Colorado.

CSU Extension hires Community Energy Coordinators

2010-07-23T12:14:00.002-06:00

CSU Extension has hired five Community Energy Coordinators across the state, two of which focus on both the Logan / Morgan and the Golden Plains Extension service areas.

Tim Edgar will be serving the area from the Sterling office, and can be reached at 970-522-3200 x 276.

Rich Mullaney will be serving the area from the Holyoke office, and can be reached at 970-466-2355.

The Community Energy Coordinators will be a face and voice to "all things energy" in the region. They will be focusing on alternative energy, energy efficiency and conservation and renewable energy. They are also tasked with forming an energy advisory board that will help develop a strategic plan for energy throughout the region.

Please contact Rich or Tim to discuss energy for your home, farm/ranch, business, or municipality.

Biofuels Webinar Series

2009-09-01T11:02:00.002-06:00

Part 1 Community Impacts of Biofuels Production can be viewed by clicking this link http://connect.extension.iastate.edu/p33649116/

Part 2 Biofuels as related to Climate and Carbon is coming up September 11th see details below

Part 3 Biofuels Building Facilities in the Future is coming up September 28th with details to follow soon

Biofuels as related to Climate Change, Carbon Emissions and the Low Carbon Fuel Standard

September 11, 2009 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CST

Program Summary:
Original goals of the biofuel industry were to raise agricultural commodity prices and enhance economic opportunity in rural America. Now, climate change, global warming, and the carbon emission reduction are primary drivers. This webinar will update Extension educators on the many ramifications of this federal policy change. Discussion will delineate implications of the low carbon fuel standard, land use change, and opportunities for existing corn ethanol plants to transition to new California and Dept. of Energy proposed regulations.

Presenter:
Dr. Gustafson received his Ph.D. degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Illinois. His M.S. degree in Agricultural Economics is from the University of Minnesota. He grew up on a crop livestock farm near Minneapolis, MN. Dr. Gustafson is currently a professor and Biofuels Economist in the Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics at North Dakota State University. In addition he is co-director of NDSU’s Bioenergy and Product Innovation Center (BioEPIC). Dr. Gustafson teaches two classes, Elements of Economics and Macroeconomics which are entirely on-line. He has won department, college and national teaching awards for his efforts. His research responsibilities include development of financial risk management strategies for farms,

How To Connect: On September 11, start connecting 5 minutes prior to the start time of 11:00 CST. You need to have a computer with Internet access with speakers. At the meeting time, copy and paste this URL into your browser to enter the meeting: http://connect.extension.iastate.edu/unl/

At that URL you will find a login page. Click on “Click to Enter” under the “Enter as a Guest” heading. You will then be prompted for your name. Enter your name and click “Enter” to enter the meeting space. The audio portion of the meeting will be come through your computer speakers.

Anytime before the meeting you can visit the following URL to confirm your ability to connect to the Breeze server: http://breeze.extension.iastate.edu/common/help/en/support/meeting_test.htm

F. John Hay
Extension Educator
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Biological Systems Engineering
250 L.W. Chase Hall
Lincoln, NE 68583-0726
PH (402) 472-0408
Fax (402) 472-6338

Thank you!
Dennis Kaan

Wind Energy Economics Webinar

2008-12-18T15:57:00.001-07:00

This webinar addresses the challenges of financing winf energy developments as Wall Street melts down! This webinar will be broadcast at several GPA Extension offices. Contact us to find out if an office near you will offering these webinars.

http://goldenplains.colostate.edu/renewable_energy.html

Dennis Kaan

Wind & Renewable Energy Webinars

2008-12-18T15:55:00.001-07:00

This series of webinars addresses many of the challenges to developing wind energy resources. These webinars will be broadcast at several GPA Extension offices. Contact us to find out if an office near you will offering these webinars.

http://goldenplains.colostate.edu/renewable_energy.html

Dennis Kaan

Wind Lease Contracts Conference

2008-11-24T15:37:00.002-07:00

This is a recording (Audio & Video) of a conference sponsored by the High Plains CRD Energy Team (held 11/21/2008). This conference discussed various aspects to consider before entering into a wind lease contract.

Note: You will need Adobe Flash Player installed on your browser in order to view & listen to this conference. The video is about an hour and a half long.

http://connect.extension.iastate.edu/p48538028/

Community Based Wind Development Workshop (May 7 & 8, 2008)

2008-04-09T10:17:00.003-06:00

Learn from wind developers, public policy leaders and technical experts. Learn how you can take advantage of wind resources and develop a wind project that benefits you and your community.

The workshops will be in Lamar, Colorado on May 7, 2008 and in Wray, Colorado on May 8, 2008.

Use the link below to access the program flyer in PDF format:

http://goldenplains.colostate.edu/pdfdocs/2008_community_wind_flyer.pdf

Perry

Wray Wind Energy Workshop Presentations

2008-03-31T11:29:00.003-06:00

We have posted the presentations from the recent Wray (Colorado) Wind Energy Workshop. All the presentations are available in Adobe PDF format as well as their original PowerPoint format.

Please be aware that some of these files are quite large and will tax a dial-up Internet connection. Use the link below to access the GPA Renewable Energy web site.

http://goldenplains.colostate.edu/renewable_energy.html

GPA Energy Blog!

2008-03-25T14:04:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the Golden Plains Area Extension, Renewable Energy Blog! We are proud to be able to present this tool to our customers. We will be using the Energy Blog to post information and items of interest to our readers.

In addition we will be posting listings of workshops related to Renewable Energy. Please check back regularly or subscribe to the Posts (Atom) feed to automatically get notification of new postings to this blog.

This blog is related to the Golden Plains Area Renewable Energy web site. Use the link below to access this site as well as the GPA Web Site in General.

http://goldenplains.colostate.edu/renewable_energy.html

Thank you for visiting!