In the spirit of a cleaner, greener Lowry, here are stories of three separate residents – Marc and his wife Gretchen, Karolyn and Ross – and the small steps they have taken contributing toward sustainability. Each has an element that is unique to her/him, but much of what they did was common and can be imitated. The unifying theme might be called moving toward an “electrification” lifestyle.
All would emphasize the first, most important step they took, along with it being a practical and an easy action, is to start with an energy audit and then improve the insulation of their home. Several years ago, Marc, Gretchen and Karolyn booked such an audit. This led to increasing the quantity and quality of insulation in the attic and above the garage, as well as sealing leaks where there were drafts. If you’re interested in pursuing this, you might also explore the possibility of rebates to lower your costs.
About ten years ago, Marc and Gretchen became interested in solar electricity but were reluctant to risk adding panels to the roof. Instead, they joined what is termed a “solar garden”. By purchasing 14 solar panels that were installed elsewhere, they receive ongoing monetary benefits from the electricity generated by these panels. In addition, they are doing their part to help reduce climate change due to fossil fuels.
Ross, Marc and Gretchen have two other factors in common. Each purchased an electric vehicle along with a charger installed in their garage. While these items might not be in everybody’s budget, both have also installed heat pumps: Ross for his hot water heater and Marc and Gretchen for their home furnace. A heat pump doesn’t use fossil fuel. It can be compared somewhat to a refrigerator, where heat is extracted from the air and used to warm the house/water. The pump also replaces the need for an air-conditioning unit, and this is when the owner will reap the greatest financial savings. Karolyn had a heat pump many years ago while living in Tennessee, and she was amazed to discover the technology has so improved that there are now special units that can be employed in colder geographical regions.
Karolyn recently replaced an old gas stove with an electric unit that has an electric oven (both traditional and convection mode) along with an induction top. The motive was primarily for health reasons. Gas appliances (fireplace, furnace, stove tops, etc.) all use a permanent pilot light. This is not only a waste of burning fuel, but it emits toxins and pollutants in the confinement of the home. Though it required some small adjustments, she is now very pleased with the choice. Many professional chefs are now turning to induction tops as their preference over gas.
While there’s the challenge of upfront costs to implement these (and many other aspects of electrification), most will eventually lead to long term financial savings. They will likely require some minor adjustments – such as making sure your master electric panel is compatible with some of these changes; purchasing different pots and pans; adjusting the thermostat, and so on. Most importantly, though, are the potential health benefits and the contribution one makes toward sustainability. As can be seen, it starts with small steps. Then, phasing in “green choices” every few years or so.
As a reminder, Xcel has a program that ALL of us can implement immediately by using our appliances during off peak hours. It’s called “Time of Use Pricing.” The Lowry Climate Action team is planning to have guest speakers on these and related topics this coming year. This information will be in your LUN newsletter; we hope you will join to learn more.
This article was written by Joe Rook.