Hi All,
I presented a high level building benchmark to the selectmen on Monday night (missed you Michael M.). Also shared info on the Carbon Challenge presentation and mentioned that we would like to have the selectmen there. (Also made mention of challenging Hampstead selectmen, since their library will be participating in implementing the challenge).
They are very concerned about energy costs, obviously. They would like to hold a workshop in the next couple of weeks to talk about ways to reduce energy use.
I contacted a friend at SDES (Sustainable Development and Energy Systems) Group and he suggested that for the near term, beyond the basics in tightening the shell, that we could look at retrofitting outside temperature regulators to boilers to regulate the temperature the water is heated to based on outdoor temperatures. Manufacturers claim installations can see up to a 14% energy use savings.
Regarding the presentation on October 8th (7:30 at the Community Center) - please remember to talk the carbon challenge/energy efficiency presentation up with friends and colleagues. Also, send me your challenge results (what have you done and what are you planning on doing with carbon reductions in lbs noted) and a picture of what drives you to make changes (picture of your children, etc.).
If you like, we can have a practice session a day or two before or you can wing it when it comes to your slide of results.
Michelle
P.S. I asked Selectmen about the RPC grant and they were interested in checking into it. Steven Angelo (our new administrator) contacted RPC and they were open to our request since only three communities submitted. Steven asked for a recommendation and I suggested that we would be interested in them crafting a section for the Master Plan encouraging sustainable development and encouraging the implementation of alternative energy systems, as well as asking that town officials place energy efficiency consideration as a top priority in evaluating expenditures for new construction and maintenance of town buildings.
