Jackson, Wyo. — Energy Conservation Works (ECW) works with Lower Valley Energy, the Town of Jackson and Teton County to help provide energy-saving options for homeowners, renters, businesses and those planning for the future.
“We connect people with opportunities to save money and reduce electricity usage,” Energy Conservation Works Executive Director Melissa Turley said.
Rising electricity costs and climate change have spurred unprecedented global investment in clean energy and interest in energy efficiency. As reported recently in the New York Times, residents feel the effects firsthand in the Tetons, where the National Park Service expects the Grand Teton to see seven to 14 fewer weeks of below-freezing temperatures by late this century.
ECW helps the community conserve energy by connecting residents and businesses to rebates, low-interest financing, renewable energy and energy-saving public projects. Energy efficiency remains the most cost-effective and fastest way to lower energy costs.
Here are some easy actions to take:
Homeowners – Lower energy bill and make a home more comfortable
ECW advises homeowners to schedule an energy audit to identify areas for improvement, including energy use, comfort and health. Energy audits also qualify homeowners for a 1.5% interest loan through ECW and rebates from Lower Valley Energy (LVE). Contact Amy at 307-739-6045 or amyw@lvenergy.com to schedule an audit.
Once a project is identified, ECW and LVE provide assistance to make upgrades more affordable.
- LVE rebates: Available for heat pumps, insulation, windows and more for homes that heat with electric
- Tax credits: For renewable energy, electric vehicles and efficiency projects contact Zach Isler at zisler@energyconservationworks.org
- 1.5% interest loans: For energy efficiency projects, heat pump HVAC systems, home solar projects and more contact Megan Jennings at mjennings@energyconservationworks.org
One homeowner who recently improved the energy efficiency of their home shared this about their experience, “Our ‘rambler’ DIY house from the 80’s needed a lot of work. ECW’s low-interest loan and Lower Valley Energy’s rebates helped us achieve our goals of improving efficiency and health, resulting in lower energy bills and higher overall happiness.”
For Businesses – Smart investment opportunities with a high impact
The businesses that serve residents and visitors are the backbone of the community’s economic success. Reducing overhead costs through strategic energy efficiency projects is vital to creating a sustainable and resilient future.
ECW and LVE have helped businesses with hundreds of energy efficiency projects ranging from heat pump conversions to solar panel installations. Nearly 240 businesses have completed lighting efficiency upgrade projects with LVE since 2012. Key program opportunities include:
- LVE commercial rebates
- ECW’s 0% interest commercial loan program
- Technical assistance understanding tax credit and grant opportunities
Public Projects – Saving taxpayer dollars and keeping power costs low for everyone
The Town of Jackson and Teton County are leaders in energy efficiency. Since 2010, ECW has invested $3.79 million of SPET funds to improve the energy efficiency of public facilities.
These investments have reduced energy costs substantially, saving close to $200,000 of taxpayer dollars annually for the Town and County to power public facilities. Projects include shared solar arrays, EV chargers and high-efficiency lighting at locations including the Snow King Ice Rink, Jackson Hole airport and Teton County/Jackson Recreation Center. These projects contribute to the community’s goal of achieving Net-Zero emissions by 2030 and have attracted $1.75 million in matching funds from other local, State and federal sources.
Efficient energy use is key to keeping electricity rates low for everyone and investing in clean energy improves energy resilience. Find out more about Energy Conservation Works’ Community Solar project.
For more information contact Zach Isler at 206-419-1244 or email zisler@energyconservationworks.org.
