Volunteer Training to be Held January 20 for Home Energy Program
1/14/10, Page5
by the Charlotte Energy Committee

Charlotte is partnering with Efficiency Vermont to bring a new energy-saving program to local households. The joint project between Transition Town and Charlotte’s Energy Committee is designed to help residents save money and energy in their homes.
Local volunteers will be trained to conduct free home energy visits designed to help homeowners learn about energy-saving opportunities. Volunteers will install free ENERGY STAR® compact fluorescent light bulbs and water-saving devices and provide information and special incentives to save more energy. The home energy visit identifies homes that would be good candidates for a professional energy audit and comprehensive energy efficiency home improvements through a certified Vermont Weatherization or Home Performance with ENERGY STAR contractor. Locally, the project is being spearheaded by Transition Town Charlotte and Charlotte’s Energy Committee.
“This is a great opportunity for us to help our friends and neighbors learn about energy efficiency while saving energy, money and in the bigger picture, taking action on climate change ” says Suzy Hodgson.
Local organizers hope to have 15 or more trained volunteers to conduct the home energy site visits. The number of homes receiving assessments will depend on how many local residents volunteer for the effort.
The volunteer training session is scheduled on Wednesday January 20 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Senior Center, with refreshments available from 5:30 p,m. Volunteers will be asked to volunteer for a minimum of eight hours. Anyone interested in learning more about being a volunteer should contact Suzy Hodgson at 425-3758 or Nancy Severance at 425-2111.
“Fluctuating fuel prices, the state of our economy, and a greater awareness of our responsibility to reduce greenhouse gas emissions have all heightened Vermonters’ interest in reducing energy use in their homes,” says Suzy Hodgson. “Many people are unaware of whether or not their homes are wasting energy, what actions they can take to reduce their utility bills, and where to turn for help,” adds Nancy Severance of Transition Town Charlotte. “We’re very pleased to be a part of what promises to be a positive experience for volunteers and homeowners alike.”

– Charlotte Energy Committee