Vernon Pledges to Reduce Municipal Energy Use 20% by 2018

Vernon has joined more than 100 other Connecticut municipalities to pledge increased energy efficiency and renewable energy use as part of the Clean Energy Communities program.

The program is offered by Energize Connecticut, CL&P, Yankee Gas, and the Clean Energy Finance and Investment Authority. It is designed to help cities and towns save energy and increase the installation of renewable energy.

Vernon pledged to reduce its energy consumption by 20 percent in municipal buildings, attain 20 percent of electrical needs from renewable sources and take other actions to support clean energy by 2018.

The following is from Energize Connecticut:

Public involvement is critical to helping each town reach its energy goals. Residents and businesses that utilize Energize CT energy efficiency programs can help their community earn a grant, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, which can be used toward a community-selected energy saving project. Through participation in Energize CT renewable energy programs, they can also help their town earn a solar photovoltaic (PV) energy system that can be installed on a municipal building.

Energy experts from CL&P, Yankee Gas and CEFIA are working with each town to achieve these goals and earn rewards.

“By signing the pledge, these towns are leading by example in achieving significant levels of energy efficiency and renewable energy,” said Matthew Gibbs, Director of Energy Efficiency for CL&P. “CL&P offers customized energy solutions and innovative financing for the benefit of the entire community.”

One energy-saving program all CL&P customers can participate in is Home Energy Solutions℠ (HES), a convenient in-home service where CL&P-authorized energy specialists will come to your home or apartment and perform a thorough energy assessment, make on-the-spot energy improvements including air sealing and lighting upgrades, and provides you with a comprehensive report detailing additional saving opportunities. While these services are valued at an average of $1,000, the cost for the HES service is only $99, with the fee waived for income-eligible residents. The average home in Connecticut will save approximately $250 annually after completing the initial HES visit. Additional Energize Connecticut efficiency measures such as insulation upgrades will result in deeper savings.

Residents and businesses looking to save energy and money should visit EnergizeCT.com or call 877.WISE.USE(877-947-3873).

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