Last night, PA State Rep Greg Vitali held a Green Energy Meeting at the Coopertown Elementary School to update local residents and businesses on new programs and financing available for energy efficiency upgrades.
With an audience composed of about one third homeowners, one third contractors, and one third small business owners, the speakers covered various programs currently underway. They also highlighted resources that are available today for energy consumers in the area.
They split the presentation into four sections. After a brief introduction by Rep Vitali, each speaker had about a twenty minute presentation followed by a lengthy open formal and then informal question and answer period.
Dan Griffiths, Director of Energy Technology and Deployment Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, was the first speaker covering the PA Sunshine Program and the state's energy independence strategy. Pennsylvania is making an over $650 million investment toward increasing our energy independence and promoting green energy in the state. The state has already raised about $100 million in new bond funding with $30 million already being deployed in the new programs. The program includes both funding and rebates for individual projects meeting their criteria.
The second speaker was Jeffery Gatter, Senior VP of AFC First Financial. He delved more deeply primarily into the Keystone Help Program. This program provides low cost financing for Energy Efficiency Home Improvements with interest rates and rebates varying on the type of projects being proposed. This program is a key driver for both homeowners and contractors to make the investments cost effective for all involved. Rebates are available for projects completed after February 23, 2009 while financing is available for projects begun after February 23, 2009.
The final speaker was Spencer Finch from the Pennsylvania Environmental Council and the Delaware Valley Green Building Council. He added to the previous speakers by discussing the High Performance Green Building Program and highlighting how to approach these projects. The key is to start small and do the obvious projects first before starting with the major retrofits and solar/geothermal options that are available. He reviewed several of the resources available both in the area and nationally.
Thanks again to Representative Vitali's efforts to put on another great program highlighting the steps the state is taking to help the state, the residents, and the environment as they grow towards a greener future. Be sure to check his website for upcoming legislation.
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