Energy Efficiency Subcommittee
Purpose
Assuring access to affordable utility resources for Kent County’s most vulnerable residents while promoting a culture of energy efficiency for all.
Facts
- In the United States, the residential building sector accounts for about 20% of greenhouse gas emissions (EPA 2010) and about 20% of energy consumption (EIA 2008). Meeting broad goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by more than 80% by 2050 will require a concentrated effort to reduce the energy use of our existing building stock.
- GVSU Seidman Business School reports in the 2010 ENTF Utility/Conservation Assistance Report that 34% more households were helped between 2009 and 2010 (18,814/2009 – 25,144/2010).
- In 2010, emergency payments continued to rise to $346 per case, exceeding 2009’s record level by 7%.
2010-2011 Accomplishments
- Used the Energy Efficiency brand to strongly move into conservation education and weatherization development.
- Worked with DTE Energy to run a Saturday-long, community resource day at DeVos Place for residents with utility needs.
- Launched system redesign initiatives that:
- Expanded utility provider coordination; energy conservation education with Kent Intermediate School District and expanded weatherization service coordination.
- Created a system based emergency payment process including common application and funding management.
- Published the MSU Urban Planning School’s Kent County Energy Study resulting in:
- Distributing a catalogue of Kent County energy efficiency services providers and resources.
- With Home Repair Services of Kent County, running a Senior Volunteer Winter Prep service day.
