Energy Smart for Homes

     Making home energy improvements simple and affordable

"Thank you so much for spending the time at our new home, and in the writing of the report, to help us become more energy efficient...and warm! We have already begun to take action, and now it's so helpful to have such a concise and helpful list."

                                                 - Energy Smart participant

"My energy analyst did a very good, thorough job in assessing my home. I give him an A. Thank you very much!"

-Energy Smart participant

Overview

Energy Smart for Homes is a tri-county program that assists residents in Gunnison, Eagle and Pitkin Counties in improving their homes, making them safer and more comfortable, as well as saving them money. Energy Smart offers an Energy Resource Center with a library, demonstration equipment, a computer kiosk and more to use as you craft and implement your personalized energy plan.

In addition, Energy Smart offers a full-time Home Energy Advisor for free consultations to connect homeowners with information, skilled workers and financing programs. 

ORE administers the Energy Smart program in Gunnison County and operates the Energy Resource Center out of its office in Gunnison.

Visit www.EnergySmartColorado.com to learn more about and participate in this program.

To Participate

To get started on making your home more comfortable and saving money, enroll in Energy Smart today.  Contact Bart at 970-641-7682.

Download Energy Smart forms and applications here:

• Homeowner Enrollment Form. To enroll in the program, fill out and return to ORE.
• Homeowner Rebate Application. If you or your contractor has made some simple energy upgrades, you can get a rebate for the cost of materials and labor. This form also includes a list of eligible measures.

Contractors

Check out opportunities and resources for the building industry here.

The Basics

Just Getting Started? A Home Energy Assessment is the best way for you to determine where your home is performing well and where it needs to improve when it comes to energy efficiency. You will also have access to Surveyor, an online tracking tool that will allow you to monitor your home's energy usage and evaluate cost-benefit analyses in decision-making.

Low Income. See if you qualify for income-qualified energy programs.

Talk to an Expert. To schedule a FREE appointment with a Home Energy Advisor, call ORE: 970-641-7682.

Ready to Talk $$$? To learn about financing opportunities, such as rebates, federal tax credits, low-income weatherization programs and financing programs, check out our Financial Incentives Guide

"Green" Contractors. For information on local contractors specializing in high performance design, home energy improvements and renewable energy systems, stop by the ORE office to pick up a copy of the Green Business Directory.

To-Do List. Check out our low-hanging fruit list to find some quicky DIY actions you can take and important upgrades to get in your energy plan.

Events

Your path to a better energy footprint doesn't have to be filled with tedium and to-do lists! ORE regularly schedules the events listed below. Stay tuned to the ORE site to learn about upcoming events to attend. If you are interested in hosting any of the events below, contact ORE and we'll start planning!

Throw a Party. Host an Original Caulk-Us Party in your abode or business.

Get Educated. Book an Energy 101 crash course for your organization, business, club or group.

Show Off. If you live in a building that is super efficient or incorporates natural materials or boasts a renewable system, schedule a Sustainable Building Tour to give your fellow Valley citizens an ideal to aspire to.

The Experience

Links

Recharge Colorado: the Governor's Energy Office's resource and tools on all things energy

Home Energy Saver, a free online tool

Interested in starting simple? Check out this FAQ on energy efficient Lighting

If you are a contractor or are interested in some DIY projects, check out our resources on building Education / Training

A locally produced blog on passive solar design

The benefits of insulation: