We often receive questions from homeowners about how to get started with energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Recently a gentleman named Jim in Corcoran, MN reached out to us with a question on this topic, and we decided to share the answer with everyone in the hopes that it will help you, too.
The Question
Hello,
I am a homeowner in Corcoran (Hennepin County). My family and I are very interested in learning more about energy alternatives for heating and cooling our residence. Last winter, we, like many others, took a big financial hit with the cost of propane; we’d like to reduce — or eliminate — our dependence on it. We are especially interested in a system that would include the integration of solar and geothermal. (And anything else you may suggest.) Can someone come out to our home and assess our energy needs, then make some recommendations to us?
Thank you for your time with this request,
Jim
The Answer
“Hi Jim! I’m Trevor Drake with Metro CERT. I’m glad you reached out and are interested in saving energy! You have a few options for getting started, which I’ve outlined below.”
- Energy Efficiency: First, we always suggest pursuing energy efficiency BEFORE renewable energy. Using less energy will almost always save more energy and money in a shorter amount of time than investing in renewable energy generation at your home. For heating and cooling, I’d recommend starting by making sure your equipment is tuned up and programmed to be as efficient as possible. Click here to see a full list of tips on heating and cooling efficiency from ENERGY STAR.
- Utility Efficiency Programs: All utilities in Minnesota have programs to help their customers track and reduce their energy use. You could get started by contacting your utility to find out what programs they offer, such as having an energy audit completed, rebates on equipment tune-ups, and lighting rebates. See programs on DSIRE.
- Solar Energy: If you’re still interested in renewable energy after looking into efficiency, we have a great site called the Clean Energy Project Builder where you can find and contact solar energy contractors. The Minnesota Renewable Energy Society also provides unbiased solar site assessments for a small fee.
- Geothermal: For geothermal, we have a decent page of resources on the CERTs website. One resource that might be the most beneficial is the Minnesota Geothermal Heat Pump Association’s list of professionals.
- Choosing a Contractor: Finally, we always recommend some due diligence before choosing a contractor. We have a list of tips for hiring a contractor, and the ENERGY STAR program also has 10 tips.
We hope this is enough to get you started. Let us know how things go and good luck!
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The Get Answers series on the Energy Stories Blog offers useful tips from CERTs and our partners to help you get to the bottom of your energy efficiency and renewable energy questions. Click here to see more stories in the series >> |
