Winnetka Recognized After Cutting Natural Gas Use by 642,000 Therms Over 8 Years

WINNETKA, IL — The Village of Winnetka was recognized for work aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and protecting the environment.

Officials said an eight-year partnership with the North Shore Gas energy efficiency team helped cut natural gas use by 642,000 therms.

According to the village, that level of energy savings reduced ongoing heating costs. The village said the 642,000 therms saved equals nearly 3,400 metric tons of carbon dioxide not released into the local environment. It's also equal to the annual energy use of 456 homes and 8.6 million miles driven by an average gas-powered vehicle in a year.

“Our energy efficiency efforts are an important part of the Village’s overall commitment to sustainability and economic stewardship,” said Kristin Kazenas, Village Manager at the Village of Winnetka. “Reducing our energy use and the equivalent carbon emissions aligns with our community’s values to protect the environment and encourage resource conservation.”

The village said it has used about $130,000 in North Shore Gas energy efficiency program incentives to help pay for projects tied to those savings. Those projects included boiler tune-ups, steam trap replacements and an HVAC boiler condensate recovery project that is currently being completed. The village also said an insulation study identified energy savings through a large insulation project designed to reduce heat loss from boilers' uninsulated mechanical components.

According to the village, using North Shore Gas incentives lets Winnetka complete projects at a lower cost.

“Winnetka’s energy efficiency efforts illustrate its commitment to a cleaner environment and reduced costs for its residents and businesses, and the wider region,” said Jarred Nordhus, principal manager of Energy Efficiency Programs at North Shore Gas. “We are thankful to Winnetka’s leaders and facilities’ team for their partnership. This is a great example of north suburban community members working hand in hand to make a positive impact for all.”