EcoEKY: Green News from Eastern Kentucky

from the Mountain Association for Community Economic Development (MACED) website:

MACED Launches Energy Efficient Enterprises Project

May 8, 2008

Berea, Ky — The Mountain Association for Community Economic Development announced recently the launch of Energy Efficient Enterprises (E3) to enhance the financial strength of businesses and organizations and to benefit the natural environment. The program helps enterprises realize cost savings through the use of energy efficient equipment and systems or through renewable energy sources.

With rising energy prices, many companies are paying more for natural gas, propane and electricity. These vital inputs are cutting into profit margins and weakening the ability of businesses to invest in their futures.

In addition, growing awareness of the effects of carbon dioxide on climate change has spurred many people to seek ways to reduce emissions through greater energy efficiency and the adoption of other energy sources such as wind, solar and low impact hydro-electric power.

In response, MACED developed the E3 program. It begins with an on-site energy assessment, followed by recommendations for change and assistance with identifying and choosing an independent installation company. MACED provides financing for identified improvements at low rates and flexible terms for each enterprise.

According to Joshua Bills, MACED’s energy specialist, “Businesses and organizations that seek to be successful financially and which are careful to protect the natural world around them are the cornerstone of a vibrant Appalachia. By investing in energy efficiency, enterprises can be more profitable, improve working conditions and reduce negative effects on the environment. With the money saved from energy efficiency measures, enterprises may then choose to invest in renewable energy sources, further reducing their environmental impact.”

MACED is a 31-year-old nonprofit organization that works in eastern Kentucky and Central Appalachia to create economic opportunity, strengthen democracy and support the sustainable use of natural resources. To find out more about MACED’s E3 project, visit www.maced.org or contact MACED’s energy specialist, Joshua Bills, at 859-986-2373 or jbills@maced.org.

from the Kentucky Solar Partnership website:

Low-Interest Loans for Solar Water Heaters

The Kentucky Solar Partnership (KSP) and the Mountain Association for Community Economic Development (MACED) are partnering to offer low interest loans for the installation of solar water heaters. Loans cover the full equipment and installation cost. Interest rates are fixed at 6.0%. All loans are to be repaid in monthly installments, with a fixed term of six years.

Who can apply?

Residents and businesses in Eastern Kentucky are eligible to apply. A credit check is required before final loan approval. Click here to see a map and list of the 51 counties in MACED’s service area.

What does a solar water heater cost?

Installing a residential solar water heater in Kentucky will typically cost $3,000 to $6,500 and will save a family about $150 to $400 or more per year on their utility bills. The price range for installing a system depends on the amount of hot water used each day, whether a new water storage tank is required, the size of the home, whether the system is installed by the homeowner or a professional contractor, and other factors.

To learn more about this low-interest loan program, visit KSP's website. Click here.

..........