BrightBlog: Tips for Home Energy Reduction

NYSERDA Boosts Contractors, Creates a Skilled Clean Energy Workforce

2011-12-05T13:03:00.000-08:00

By Elizabeth Silleck, Westchester Business Journal

The story of BrightHome Energy Solutions, LLC (BrightHome) exemplifies NYSERDA's success in supporting small business growth and workforce development in the clean energy field.

Mike Brown, Partner, Bright Home Energy Solutions from Elizabeth Silleck on Vimeo.

New Yorkers know the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) best for injecting millions of dollars into the state economy for direct support of clean energy projects in buildings and homes. While NYSERDA continues to provide funding for retroﬁts, energy efficient construction and renewable energy installations, it might get less attention for its other efforts — namely, business and workforce development. The story of BrightHome Energy Solutions, LLC (BrightHome) exempliﬁes NYSERDA’s success in supporting small-business growth and workforce development in the clean energy ﬁeld.

In the midst of a struggling economy, business is good at BrightHome. Since 2009, the company has created 30 jobs in Westchester County. As a result, the county has 30 formerly unemployed people who have steady income and possible career prospects in the clean energy sector.

One of those jobs went to a disadvantaged worker who received NYSERDA-funded workforce development training at the Osborne Association. BrightHome also hired employees through workforce development initiatives of the Westchester/Putnam Workforce Investment Board, Sustainable South Bronx and WestCOP.

A key ingredient to BrightHome’s success is its participation in NYSERDA’s Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® program, which requires participating contractors to be accredited by the Building Performance Institute (BPI).

“Home Performance training really gave us a foundation for doing energy efﬁciency work and enabled us to measure the results,” explained Mike Brown, partner at BrightHome.

Home Performance training teaches contractors to view the house as a system, understanding that changes to one part of the home can and do affect the home’s performance overall. As Brown explained, “It’s all about how things interact with each other — we see this house as a living organism with a life span. We want to ﬁgure out how to make it last as long as possible.”

One essential diagnostic strategy used by Home Performance contractors is the Comprehensive Home Assessment, which uncovers health, safety and energy-usage data used to determine appropriate energy-saving improvements. NYSERDA is currently offsetting the cost of Comprehensive Home Assessments to homeowners across the state, so contractors like BrightHome can provide them for free or at reduced cost, depending on the homeowner’s income.

In addition, NYSERDA supports a network of training sites across the state and reimburses half the cost of BPI technician certiﬁcation. Depending on available funding, additional training incentives may be available for certain regions. NYSERDA also helps contractors ramp up their businesses by assisting with initial equipment costs and by providing co-operative marketing dollars.

“Last year alone, NYSERDA reimbursed us about $9,000 toward our marketing activities. We’ve invested in newspaper ads, television, website banners and signage on our vehicles,” Brown remarked.

Once a contractor has successfully obtained BPI accreditation and is approved to participate in NYSERDA’s Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Program, the contractor’s clients have access to cash incentives, low-interest ﬁnancing and, for those who are income-eligible, direct subsidies of up to 50 percent of project costs. NYSERDA’s customer incentives are vital to BrightHome’s business.

“Between the ﬁnancing at 3.49 percent interest and the cash incentives, I have one client right now who is investing in insulation, air sealing, a high-efficiency heating unit and air conditioning system with no out-of-pocket cost. What’s more, the projected energy cost savings will offset the annual loan payments,” said Brown.

BrightHome was formed exclusively as a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® contractor, but many participants in the program had already been in business for years as home improvement contractors before signing up with NYSERDA. A full list of participating contractors can be found at www.nyserda.ny.gov. You’ll always want to do your homework before engaging any contractor.

BrightHome’s experience with NYSERDA is an example of a public/private partnership that is achieving measurable results. The business is growing, and formerly unemployed people have jobs working on projects that reduce energy use.

For more information about how to become a participating Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® contractor or general questions about NYSERDA, contact your local Energy $mart Communities Coordinator at Elizabeth.Silleck@gmail.com.

BrightHome's Mike Brown Explains the Benefits of an Energy Audit on WCBS Channel 2 in New York

2011-10-26T12:07:00.000-07:00

We're in the news! Watch as BrightHome's Mike Brown explains how to lower your heating bills this winter with a free homeenergy audit.

BrightHome Energy Solutions Expands To Long Island To Help Homeowners Reduce Energy Usage

2011-09-22T08:51:00.000-07:00

BrightHome Energy Solutions Expands To Long Island To Help Homeowners Reduce Energy Usage

Sound Beach, NY – BrightHome Energy Solutions, an Elmsford, New York based home energy solutions company, is proud to announce that it is expanding its operations into Long Island. The company has helped countless homeowners across New York and New Jersey increase their homes’ comfort and energy efficiency and navigate the complicated world of green rebates and tax credits.

“Many homeowners are intimidated by the complex-sounding language around tax credits and rebates for energy efficiency improvements,” said Tom Brown of BrightHome Energy Solutions. “We have the expertise to help homeowners make sense of these incentives to maximize their energy efficiency investments.”

BrightHome is well versed in program incentives for Long Island Power Authority (LIPA), National Grid, the Town of Babylon and NYSERDA’s Green Jobs Green New York (GJGNY). In fact, through GJGNY, BrightHome is able to offer unsecured loans of up to $25,000 at rates as low as 3.49% for energy efficiency improvements and many customers qualify for free audits. BrightHome’s Energy Saving Consultants does the work to save customers the most money.

In addition, homeowners can still take advantage of a 10% rebate on qualifying energy-saving improvements of up to $30,000 with the Home Performance with Energy Star program.

BrightHome Energy Savings Consultant Tom Brown knows there’s more to energy efficiency improvements than just savings. “Our services can make your home more comfortable, reduce drafts and uneven temperatures, eliminate musty smells and even reduce allergens in your home.”

About BrightHome Energy Solutions
BrightHome Energy Solutions, headquartered in Elmsford, NY, offers energy efficiency solutions to residents in New York State. All key team members are trained in building sciences and green weatherization techniques. BrightHome offers a comprehensive, whole-house approach to improving energy efficiency and comfort at home, giving you the most bang for your buck, while protecting the environment.

BrightHome consultants are accredited by the Building Performance Institute (BPI). BrightHome offers the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® program, a state and national program from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

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BrightHome is a registered trademark. All other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.

Contact:
Tom Brown
74 Hempstead Drive
Sound Beach, NY 11789
631-849-6303

Governor Cuomo Unveils $8 Million Household Appliance Recovery Program

2011-09-14T17:17:00.000-07:00

Today the governor of New York announced a new $8 million dollar plan to help those who suffered damage from Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. The plan will help cover the costs of replacement appliances such as refrigerators, furnaces, washing machines and boilers.

A list of eligible equipment and appliances and rebate levels is as follows:

Eligible Equipment & Appliances	Rebate
Refrigerators (ENERGY STAR)	$350
Clothes Washers (ENERGY STAR)	$250
Clothes Dryers w/Moisture Sensor (higher efficiency)	$250
Dehumidifiers (ENERGY STAR)	$100
Furnace (ENERGY STAR)	$2,000
Boiler (ENERGY STAR)	$2,500
Hot Water Heater Tanks (electric- higher efficiency; gas- ENERGY STAR)	$400

More information available on the Governor's website:

http://www.governor.ny.gov/press/09152011StormRecovery

If you have any questions about the new program or for more information, contact a BrightHome team member at (914) 909 - 5300.

Record Highs Don’t Have to Mean Record High Electric Bills

2011-06-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

Heat waves have been sweeping across the nation and record highs have been recorded from coast to coast. With heat like this, air conditioners everywhere are working hard to keep families cool, but yours doesn’t have to work as hard as you might think if your house is optimized to deliver maximum comfort for minimum energy dollars.

One of the best ways to keep your air conditioner from having to work as hard is by making sure your home is properly air sealed and insulated.

“When your home isn’t properly air sealed, cool air can escape through cracks, gaps and spaces,” says Tom Brown, an Energy Savings Consultant with BrightHome Energy Solutions. “Heat can seep into your home the same way. That means your air conditioner has to work that much harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.” And we all know that the harder your air conditioner works, the higher your electricity bills will be.

But how do you keep from spending a fortune air conditioning your home if your cool air is slipping through the cracks? Brown recommends having your home’s envelope inspected to detect problem areas. BrightHome has a variety of tests available, including a blower door test and infrared thermal imaging.

Once your problem spots have been identified, you can have professionals like the certified energy experts at BrightHome seal and insulate your home to keep cool air in, hot air out and your electricity bills down. BrightHome technicians use smart, effective, affordable materials that do the most work for the best price, including closed-cell foam, foam board and loose blown cellulose insulation.

Bob from Valhalla, New York can attest to the benefits of sealing and insulation. “Best decision I ever made with regards to the house,” he says. “Plus, the house is much more comfortable…and I sleep easier knowing my house isn't wasting energy like it used to.”

Theses changes won’t just work for you during the summer months either. The same air sealing and insulation that keeps heat out and cool in during the summer will keep heat in and cold out during the winter months. Do the work now and you won’t have to worry about cold spots, drafts and high heating bills when winter rolls around. You’ll feel the benefits all year long.

And finally, let’s not forget the air conditioning unit itself. Air conditioners require regular maintenance to keep them running at peak condition. Having your air conditioner serviced by a company like BrightHome can create a noticeable increase in its performance and in turn a noticeable decrease in your electricity bills. And if it turns out that your air conditioner is in bad enough shape, or that it’s just too inefficient even at peak performance, BrightHome can install a high efficiency air conditioning unit that could reduce your cooling costs by up to 30%.

There’s no need to sweat high electricity bills any longer. It’s time to maximize your energy efficiency dollars and minimize your energy costs.

BrightHome can help you take advantage of Con Edison rebates, Federal Tax Credits or up to $3,000 in New York Home Performance with Energy Star® cash incentives and financing as low as 3.49%.

How To Make Sure Winter Drafts Don't Become Summer Hot Spots

2011-05-19T07:40:00.000-07:00

Those cold drafts that blow through houses induce shivers and raise energy bills throughout the winter months are over. But don’t be fooled. Having a poorly insulated and sealed home, which causes those winter drafts, will continue to raise your energy bills throughout the summer.

“What many people don’t realize is that the same problem areas that make your home cold and drafty in the winter will make your home hot and uncomfortable in the summer,” says Tom Brown, an Energy Savings Consultant with BrightHome Energy Solutions. “Heat enters your home in the same way that cold does, making your air conditioner work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature, which ultimately costs you money on your energy bills.”

Brown recommends checking your home’s airtightness to identify problem areas. BrightHome has a variety of tests available, including the blower door test, where a calibrated fan in a door-panel unit is used to measure how much air your home is leaking, and a thermal imaging test, which uses a camera to detect changes in temperature and create a map of your home’s problem areas. But knowing where your problem spots are isn’t much use unless you know what to do about them.

Brown explains what comes next, “Once we identify the places in your home that need insulation and air sealing, we create a set of custom recommendations designed to save you energy in the most cost efficient manner. Together with your input we develop the best plan for your needs and budget to properly insulate and air seal your home.”

Many BrightHome customers have identified their windows as a problem area and were concerned that they needed to replace their windows. In many cases, properly air sealing and insulating the walls around the windows actually proved more cost effective at reducing energy costs and making the house more comfortable.

Sometimes, however, new windows are necessary or desired. Argon insulated windows and windows with low-emittance coatings can reduce heat gain during summer months, with the added benefit of reducing heat loss in the winter. Replacing windows is a fine art though. BrightHome technicians who install energy efficient windows are also experienced carpenters who know how to install your windows for maximum airtightness and match your new windows to the style of your home for seamless design integration.

To keep winter drafts from becoming your sweltering summer indoor hotspots and raising your energy bills, give BrightHome a call. A BrightHome certified home energy efficiency consultant can check out your home and give you custom recommendations to help you get the biggest bang for your energy efficiency buck. At BrightHome our mission is to help you use less energy, save money and be more comfortable.

BrightHome can help you take advantage of up to $3,500 in New York Home Performance with Energy Star® cash incentives and Federal Tax Credits and financing as low as 3.49%.

White Plains Earth Day Event - $50 per Audit for Tornado Victims

2011-04-30T07:44:00.000-07:00

Today, I will be at the White Plains, New York Earth Day Event. It is also a few days after a tornado has killed over 300 of our fellow citizens throughout the south. Our thoughts and prayers are extended to all who have been impacted by this natural disaster.

For every audit that we sign up today at the White Plains event or over the week end on our website, BrightHome will contribute $50 to the American Red Cross tornado efforts.

We hope to see you in downtown White Plains! Mike Brown

Eco-Ed's Tips for Earth Day

2011-04-21T13:57:00.000-07:00

Earth Day began 41 years ago, on April 22nd, 1970 and is more widely celebrated every year. There are many ways that you can celebrate Earth Day and they are all correct.

Some of the actions you can take are:

Purchasing a more fuel efficient vehicle, or driving less will reduce the amount of gas you use. Walking into town instead of driving, or riding a bicycle has the added benefit of getting you in better shape physically. You may be surprised at how wonderful you feel when become more physically active.

Choosing to eat less meat, or become vegetarian, as raising beef has an extremely high carbon footprint. Even enjoying a vegetarian meal once in a while is a step in the right direction, and you may enjoy the new epicurean experience!

Save energy at home. I always recommend starting with an energy audit, so you can understand where you are using and wasting energy. Once this is accomplished, you can then prioritize the steps to take to reduce that energy use. The simplest steps which everyone can do, are to turn off lights when not in the room, and replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent or LED ones. Look for Energy Star appliances. No step is too small.

Shop locally. This supports local businesses, and reduces the amount of travel to stores. Many towns have Farmer's Markets, which have excellent locally-grown produce.

Attend a local Earth Day event for ideas on environmentally sound practices, products and services. Our event in Ridgewood will be on May 14th (a little late for Earth Day, but it will coincide with the Sidewalk Sale event). The RHS Student Environmental Action group is sponsoring a drive for people to Do One Thing (DOT). This is their personal sustainability pledge that everyone can take. This pledge asks people to choose one thing that they can commit to doing which will benefit our planet. Other towns will also be having Earth Day events, so check the papers for one nearest you.

Plant a tree. You can do this in your yard, or in a park on town property (with proper permission). How cool would it be to plant a beautiful old growth specimen that your grandchildren can climb and look at, and know that you planted it for future generations!

The additional benefit of most of these activities is that they save you money, or support the local economy! Everyone has different passions, so I suggest that you follow yours, as it will bring you the most personal satisfaction.

What I have found is that your first step will be emotionally fulfilling, and you never know where it leads. The journey is always the fun part!

"Eco-Ed" Schwartz

Eight Easy Earth Day Tips

2011-04-19T20:37:00.000-07:00

It’s almost Earth Day, and you know what that means– it’s time to think about what you can do for the environment. But there’s good news. You don’t have to spend a fortune to start saving energy. Here are a few easy things you can do yourself that can help you go green and save money at the same time.

1. Change your air conditioner’s filters regularly. Check your filters to verify how often they need to be changed – four, nine, 12 months – and make sure to clean reusable filters approximately once a month to maximize your air conditioner’s efficiency and reduce the amount of energy you need to keep your home cool.

2. Get a programmable thermostat. You can set it to run your air conditioner and heater less when you’re away from home, but have it re-adjust your home’s temperature shortly before you return home so you still get maximum comfort with minimal hassle.

3. Unplug your electronics when you’re not using them. This is especially true for items like cell phone chargers, MP3 players and tablet PCs. Electronics still draw energy from the wall as long as they’re plugged in, even when they’re not turned on, so unplug and stop these energy vampires from sucking your wallet dry.

4. Use your computer’s power saving features, like setting your computer and/or monitor to go into sleep mode after a certain amount of time. A computer in sleep mode can use up to 70 percent less energy than a computer not using energy saving features.

5. Set ceiling fans to spin the right direction for the season. During the summer, set your fan counter clockwise to create circulation for a cooling effect. For winter, set your fan clockwise to pull hot air near the ceiling into the living spaces in your home. That way you can use less energy running heaters and air conditioners without sacrificing comfort.

6. Use your blinds to help with climate control. In the summer, keep your east-facing blinds closed in the morning and your west-facing blinds closed in the evening to block radiant heat from the sun and reduce cooling costs. Keep the same blinds open in the winter to let heat in and reduce your heating bills.

7. Wash your clothes in cold water. Washing them on a hot water cycle means your water heater has to work hard and use lots of energy to keep the water hot. A cold water cycle can reduce the amount of energy it takes to wash a load of clothes by as much as 90 percent.

8. Clean your dryer’s lint trap after every use to reduce the amount of time and energy it takes to dry your clothes and, if your dryer has one, use the moisture sensor setting so your dryer doesn’t keep running unnecessarily after your clothes are dry.

Celebrate Earth Day with BrightHome!

2011-04-12T15:15:00.000-07:00

It's almost that time of the year…Earth Day! A time for all of us to think about how we impact the world we live in.

There are hundreds of things you can do right now to reduce your energy usage and minimize pollution in the environment. From insulation to caulking, to simple things like changing light bulbs, we believe that even the small things can make a difference.

To celebrate Earth Day, we will be out in New Jersey and New York talking with homeowners about living green and consuming less energy. Here’s where to find us:

New York

April 17 – Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

April 30 - White Plains Earth Day Celebration
May 15 - 21st Annual Shad Festival & Hudson River Celebration, Garrison, NY

New Jersey

April 16 - Essex County Earth Day, Essex County Environmental Center

April 30 - Morris County Earth Day, Lewis Morris Park, Morristown

May 14 - Ridgewood Earth Day, Downtown Ridgewood

Earth Day 2011 is celebrated on April 22.

New York Green Job Heroes

2011-04-01T12:42:00.000-07:00

Wednesday is often called "hump day" since you are looking at sliding into Friday. This past Wednesday was far from that, it was for me highly motivational.

I was at Sustainable South Bronx (SSBx). They work with the South Bronx and other under-served urban communities to help transform themselves into great sustainable places to live. They do this by providing a collaborative model that addresses environmental, economic and social concerns through policy change, green job training, environmental education and community greening programs.

The centerpiece of Sustainable South Bronx's workforce development is the Bronx Environmental Stewardship Training (BEST) Academy which honored their partners in achievement and success. Miquela Craytor, Executive Director of Sustainable South Bronx, stated, "Today's honorees have been pillars of program and our community, distinguished by their flexibility, commitment and inventiveness in supporting our trainees."

There were five honorees including BrightHome Energy Solutions, but I want to share the stories of the other four that set me soaring the rest of this week.

Million Trees NYC, New York City has a goal to plant one million (1,000,000) trees. That's one new tree for every eight residents of NYC. Additionally, they educate the residents about the positive benefits to the environment and our daily lives. The BEST program has provided trained landscape team members and supervisors for the program who are able to hone their landscaping skills and make New York City greener.

Bronx River Alliance, they are bit by bit cleaning up the Bronx River and making it once again a source of pride. What started out as mission of few has become a full fledged attempt, and they are winning, to make the Bronx River a place where people enjoy a peaceful walk or place to read. Again, the BEST program has trained unemployed South Bronx residents to understand what skills and work it takes to create a greener and cleaner Bronx River.

Central Park Conservancy, operates Central Park in New York City. The park has over twenty-five million visitors each year and needs lots of people to maintain and improve its beauty. And again, the BEST program has been up to the challenge of recruiting, training providing the workers who refine their landscaping skills daily. BEST workers in the park have in the past taken their skills and opened their own landscaping business. This is win win for everyone, a clean park, job training and future job creators!

Finally, the Association of Energy Affordability, Inc. Their mission is to use the principle of energy efficiency to keep housing affordable and livable for low and moderate income residents in New York City. One of their programs is to weatherize multifamily homes to reduce energy costs and make them more comfortable. Through BEST training programs the unemployed receive training in insulating, air sealing and auditing becoming part of the green movement and helping their neighbors save money.

Congratulations to Sustainable South Bronx and the other four honorees! It was great day to hear about heroes on the front line making our lives better!

Your Money May be Slipping Through the Cracks

2011-03-23T08:34:00.000-07:00

Home Improvements Reduce Energy Usage up to 40%

Have you felt a draft lately? Does your house have cold and hot spots? Do your heating and cooling bills seem higher than they should be? If so, your home may have a problem with air sealing and insulation.

Tom Brown, an Energy Savings Consultant with BrightHome Energy Solutions explains, “An improperly sealed home means heat could be escaping through cracks and crevices and other holes drilled in your walls and floors. Cold air makes its way in, raising your heating costs and seriously affecting your family’s comfort. In the summertime these same holes allow in the heat raising your cooling costs.

It’s not only your wallet and family’s comfort that are at stake. You may also be compromising your home’s indoor air quality, exposing your family to dust and allergens from outside. Poorly sealed areas allow moisture transfer, increasing the chances of mold formation, which can lead to health risks and even structural problems.”

Mr. Brown continues, “There are several tests that BrightHome can do to measure the airtightness of your home and identify problem spots. These tests require highly specialized equipment, but will yield extremely accurate results about where your home is losing energy.”

The first test BrightHome conducts is a blower door test. A calibrated fan in a door-panel unit is used to measure the amount of air leakage in your home. The higher the number, the more your home is wasting energy and money.

Next your energy consultant will use a thermal imaging camera to identify where leakage is occurring. The camera detects changes in temperature and creates a map of your home’s problem areas.

Once problem spots are identified, BrightHome will use spray foam, caulk, foam board, and cellulose insulation as required addressing the cracks and holes in your home’s walls, attic and basement.

A home that is properly air sealed and insulated by BrightHome has numerous benefits. Your home will be more comfortable by reducing cold and hot spots and drafts. Your indoor air quality will improve by keeping pollutants and allergens out. You and your family will breathe cleaner and healthier air. You will reduce moisture transfer, protecting yourself from the health and structural risks of mold.

Because they don’t have to work as hard, you will extend the life of your heating and air conditioning systems. And most importantly, you will reduce your energy usage and save money.

BrightHome can help you take advantage of up to $3,500 in New York Home Performance with Energy Star® cash incentives and Federal Tax Credits and financing as low as 3.49%.

Call BrightHome to schedule an appointment to learn how to stay warm and save money at 914-909-5300 or visit us at www.brighthome.com. Services include air sealing, insulation, windows, doors and heating and cooling systems.

Don’t Let Your Energy Costs Go Through The Roof!

2011-02-17T08:23:00.000-08:00

It’s been a cold and snowy winter in New York. This year more than ever energy bills have gone through the roof - literally. The reason? Heat loss due to poor insulation in your attic and home.

Have you noticed some homes wear an undisturbed blanket of snow on their roof? While other homes have patchy or no snow and icicles hanging from the gutters?

BrightHome Energy Consultant, Tom Brown says, “The condition of the snow on your roof will give you a good idea about whether your attic is adequately insulated.”

Like wearing a hat on a cold day, a well-insulated attic ensures that the entire house stays warm and comfortable. Poor insulation causes a home to lose heat in many places, but, since hot air rises, it will naturally move up to the attic.

“Unless the heat is held back by insulation, it will rise up and melt the snow on the roof,” Mr. Brown explains. “A blanket of snow on your roof is a sign of good insulation while patchy snow melt is a sign of poor insulation.

Look at the photos in this article. They were taken on the same afternoon, four days after a recent snowstorm. If your roof looks like this one, you almost certainly have insulation issues. Notice that the escaping heat has almost entirely melted the snow.

If your roof looks like the one on the lower right, you may also have insulation issues. You’ll notice that nearly all of the snow has melted from the roof. On the roof next door, on the bottom left, plenty of snow is remaining. This is what you want to see when you check your roof. This means that there is little indoor heat escaping out the roof.”

“Our goal at BrightHome is to keep the heat you’ve paid for indoors,” said Mr. Brown. “Insulating and air sealing the home creates a more comfortable living space that costs much less to heat.”

“Scheduling a BrightHome energy audit is the first step,” said Mr. Brown. “Using our state-of-the-art assessment tools we can identify insulation deficiencies and venting problems in your home. We can make a plan specifically to meet your home’s individual needs to save you thousands of dollars in wasted energy.”

BrightHome can help you take advantage of up to $3,500 in New York Home Performance with Energy Star® cash incentives and Federal Tax Credits and financing as low as 3.49%.

Photo Credit: Kathy Boehm

February Energy Saving Tips

2011-02-14T11:53:00.000-08:00

Here are some great Energy Saving tips for February!

1. Use your exhaust fans appropriately. In just one hour they can remove a houseful of warmed or cooled air.

2. Repair all leaky faucets. One drop per second can waste as much as 10 gallons of water in a week. If the water is hot, you lose not only the water but also the energy used to heat the water.

3. Install low-flow showerheads and faucets. It could reduce your water use by up to 50%.

Seven Bright Ideas to Cut Energy Costs in 2011

2011-01-03T10:25:00.000-08:00

Resolve to Reduce Home Energy Bills and Increase Savings and Comfort

Happy New Year! Resolution time is upon us yet again. Many homeowners are resolving to save money in 2011. One of the easiest ways to save money is to cut home energy usage.

BrightHome Energy Solutions offers seven bright ideas on how to lower home energy bills in 2011, while making the home more comfortable and energy efficient.

1. Schedule a comprehensive home energy audit

Using state-of-the-art technology, BrightHome will evaluate your entire home checking each room for efficiency and safety. BrightHome’s energy consultants will target your home’s problem areas and develop a custom plan to meet your needs and fit your budget.

2. Insulate your home

Insulation is the most effective way to improve the energy efficiency of your home. Insulating your home keeps heat in during the winter, and blocks heat out during the summer to improve comfort and save energy.

3. Clean or replace cooling & heating filters regularly

A clean filter reduces the amount of energy your HVAC system uses to achieve desired temperatures. Brighthome recommends cleaning the filter once a month for best results. If your heating system is old or outdated, it may be time to upgrade to a more efficient system. State and federal tax credits can help pay for these equipment upgrades.

4. Reduce your hot water heater temperature to 120 degrees.

For each 10-degree reduction, you can save between 3-5% in water heating costs. Reducing the water heater temperature also slows mineral build-up and increases the life of your water heater.

5. Seal leaky ducts

Air sealing will make your heating and cooling systems work more efficiently and your home more comfortable. Air sealing will improve your home’s indoor air quality by eliminating dust, airborne pollutants, unwanted drafts entering your living space.

6. Use a programmable thermostat

Establish a program that automatically reduces heating and cooling in your home when you are not there or you don’t want it.

7. Turn off electronic equipment when not in use.

Idle electrical currents still use energy and can add up to hundreds of dollars every year. When turning off electronics such as lights, televisions and computers, use a power strip to prevent stand-by mode from drawing idle currents.

This New Year resolve to lower your energy costs. These seven bright ideas are proven to reduce energy bills immediately, increase home comfort and create life-long home energy savings.

New Jersey Clean Energy Program® Announces 2011 Incentives

2010-12-20T14:01:00.000-08:00

BrightHome Energy Solutions - Offers Energy Solutions to Meet Guidelines

RIDGEWOOD, N.J.--New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program® just released its annual program update. Participating contractors such as BrightHome Energy Solutions may offer their customers incentives for 2011 that include rebates up to $4,000 and 0% financing up to $10,000.

“This new program will allow homeowners in New Jersey to make affordable changes in their homes that will increase comfort and create life-long home energy savings,” said Ed Schwartz, general manager of BrightHome New Jersey.

BrightHome’s services such as energy efficient air-sealing, insulation, direct hot water heaters and heating and cooling solutions are eligible for rebates and financing under the new program. BrightHome Energy Consultants use state-of-the-art technology to assess a home’s energy usage. BrightHome then creates a custom plan within your budget to help homeowners achieve energy savings and eligibility for the New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program® incentives.

“Using our diagnostic equipment and analytical tools we are able to model your home’s energy usage, and the savings you can expect from each of our recommendations. In most cases our plan for your home pays for itself from day one!” stated Ed Schwartz.

Money Back & Zero Interest Financing

Program details are based on projected energy savings:

* $4,000 cash rebate and 0% interest financing up to $10,000 on energy savings greater than 25%.
* $3,000 cash rebate and 0% interest financing up to $10,000 on total energy savings between 20-25%.
* $1,000 cash rebate on energy savings between 10-20%.

Rebates and 0% financing begin Jan. 3, 2011. For more information on the New Jersey Clean Energy Program® and its customer incentives, contact Ed Schwartz at 201-447-8898.

Keep Your Family Safe with a $59.95 Brighthome Furnace Inspection

2010-11-23T10:04:00.000-08:00

If your heating system if over five years old, it could be leaking dangerous carbon monoxide into your home. Carbon monoxide can leak through a cracked or faulty heat exchanger or plugged vent pipe. This odorless gas is responsible for dozens of deaths each year. Early detection can help prevent this situation.

The BrightHome 15-Point Furnace Inspection.... $59.95

1. Perform carbon monoxide leak test of heat exchanger/combustion chamber.

2. Check flue and venting for obstructions and carbon monoxide leaks.

3. Inspect heat exchanger for sooting, cracks and deformities.

4. Inspect gas valve for corrosion, leaks and restriction of gas flow and abnormal noise.

5. Inspect assembly/thermocouple/igniter.

6. Check for gas leaks.

7. Check high-limit control & safety circuit.

8. Check blower motor operation.

9. Inspect air-filtration system.

10. Inspect gas burners.

11. Check manifold gas pressure.

12. Service wiring assembly and tighten loose connections.

13. Check & adjust thermostat.

14. Check temperature rise across heat exchanger fr overheating and adjust.

15. Complete operation sequence check.

BrightHome Offers Free Energy Audits With Green Jobs- Green New York

2010-11-17T07:25:00.000-08:00

Leading Energy Efficiency Company to Provide Free Audits and 3.49% Interest Rate

Elmsford, New York, November 17, 2010—BrightHome Energy Solutions is pleased to announce its participation in the new Green Jobs-Green New York (GJGNY) program that provides free energy audits and low interest financing to New York homeowners seeking energy efficiency improvements.

“BrightHome is excited to offer homeowners free energy audits and interest rates as low as 3.49% creating an affordable way to lower their heating bills and be more comfortable,” said Mike Brown of BrightHome Energy Solutions. “We encourage homeowners to take advantage of this opportunity now for maximum savings this winter.”

Free energy audits by BrightHome through GJGNY are available to residential applicants with household incomes less than $209,000. Reduced-cost energy audits will be available to homeowners with incomes up to $418,000.

Highlighting the program is the new GJGNY Residential Loan. The loan program offers unsecured loans up to $13,000 per homeowner that will be available at 3.99% with repayment by check and 3.49% with automatic payment from a checking or savings account. Additionally, homeowners can still take advantage of the Home Performance with Energy Star 10% rebate on qualified energy saving measures up to $30,000.

The New York Home Performance with ENERGY STAR new Green Jobs-Green New York legislation was signed into law in October 2009. The new program requires New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to provide energy efficiency services to the State. NYSERDA delivers GJGNY services to owners of residential homes as well as1-4 unit residential buildings through the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Program.

Contact Mike Brown at BrightHome Energy Solutions at 914.909.5300

Avoid Furnace Hazards, Cut Heating Expenses

2010-11-15T10:20:00.000-08:00

Now is the time to ensure your furnace is safe and working correctly. A furnace should be cleaned and checked every year by a qualified heating contractor to avoid safety hazards.

“A clean, efficiently burning gas furnace produces minimal carbon monoxide, while a dirty, inefficiently burning one can produces deadly amounts,” said Charlie Simmons of BrightHome. “Plus, newer furnaces are equipped with features that shut off the furnace when a problem is detected.”

Signs that your heater needs to be replaced or serviced are scale-- or flakes of rust produced by the by-products of burning gas, grinding or chattering sounds from electrical relays, dusty smells when you turn on the system. Older furnaces don’t have as many safety features to let you know there is a problem.

“When we conduct a safety inspection, we’re making sure the carbon monoxide levels are normal and that your heating system has adequate ventilation,” said Charlie.

“Then, we inspect the heating system thoroughly for small cracks in the combustion chamber that may allow carbon monoxide to leak into the home. From there, we check the flue, thermostat, safety controls, gas pilot, heat exchanger, burners, piping, air-filter and blower operation. When dealing with a deadly gas like that, we don’t overlook anything.”

Safety measures you can take right now are making sure the area around your furnace is unobstructed and to change your filer regularly. Also, keep the burner area around the furnace clean. Remember, a yellow light is a sign you need your furnace checked out by a professional such as BrightHome.

How The World Feels About Green Brands

2010-10-22T08:28:00.000-07:00

Today we share with you a cleverly designed info graphic on how the world feels about green brands.

The graph denotes that the US & the UK appreciate on the economy (as opposed to the environment) and good value when in green brands, while India and Brazil focus believe environmental conciseness (as opposed to the economy) and trustworthiness is most important when it comes go green brands.

Do you find this true in your culture & community?

Click on the image so you can view it in its full size and see all the interesting stats for yourself.

[source]

U.S. Energy Information Administration Projects Increase in Winter Bills

2010-10-13T10:40:00.000-07:00

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) projected today that energy bills will be higher in the winter for New Yorkers.

Those whole use heating oil and natural gas will see an increase, and those who use electric heating will see a decrease.

To lower your heating bills and asses your home's energy use, contact BrightHome about a comprehensive home energy audit or energy efficient appliances.

BrightHome customers are seeing as much as 40% decrease in their energy bills since last year. Click here to read BrightHome customer testimonies.

From the EIA:

Heating Oil.

EIA expects households heating primarily with heating oil to spend an average of about 12 percent more this winter than last winter. About 7 percent of U.S. households depend on heating oil for winter fuel. The Northeast accounts for 80 percent of U.S. heating oil consumption. The average Northeast household is projected to spend 13 percent more ($259) than last winter as a result of a 5-percent increase in consumption and regional prices 8 percent higher than last winter. EIA projects residential heating oil prices in the Northeast to average about $3.06 per gallon during the winter season, 22 cents per gallon more than last winter.

Natural Gas.

EIA expects households heating primarily with natural gas to spend an average of $27 (4 percent) more this winter. About 52 percent of all U.S. households depend on natural gas as their primary heating fuel. The 4-percent increase in natural gas expenditures reflects a 6-percent increase in prices and a 2-percent decrease in consumption.

Electricity.

Households heating primarily with electricity can expect to spend an average of $18 (2 percent) less this winter. Projected household electricity expenditures are 2 percent lower this winter because a 4-percent decline in consumption more than offsets a 2-percent increase in prices.

Meet Eco Ed at The EcoCare Green Market

2010-10-13T07:05:00.000-07:00

The EY EcoCare Green Market is coming to the Meadowlands!

When: Wednesday, October 13 2010
Where: The Atrium at 200 Plaza Drive
Time: 10 AM to 9:30 PM

The Green Market offers an excellent opportunity to learn about how easily and economically you can switch to eco-friendly, sustainable options from regional sourced right here in our atrium.

All participating vendors will their own products and services that include solar energy, home energy consulting, lighting fixtures, clothing, gifts of all kinds, household cleaning products, personal items, local farm produce and delicious chocolates.

EcoCare will also raffle several donations from our vendors. Proceeds from the raffle will support The Nature conservancy's "Plant a Billion Trees" initiative.

An expert from the NJ Meadowlands Commission will be at the market to answer your questions one-on-one about environmental and green living issues.

$5 Million In Appliance Rebate Money Still Available

2010-10-12T06:57:00.000-07:00

Due to a large number of rebate reservations that were never claimed, there are still funds available under New York's Great Appliance Swap Out.

Replace those old appliances and save today! Call BrightHome Energy Solutions New York, a certified Home Performance with ENERGY STAR at 914.909.5300 to see how you can save today.

BrightHome Welcomes Charlie Simmons

2010-10-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

Charlie Simmons, a heating and cooling specialists, joins the BrightHome New York Office. With more than 29 years in heating and cooling, Charlie values customer care, safety and energy efficiency. His professional experience with custom layout ductwork systems and proper airflow on existing homes, supports BrightHome's mission to make homes more comfortable and energy efficient.

Win FREE Tickets to Garden State Greenfest from BrightHome

2010-09-30T14:54:00.000-07:00

BrightHome Energy Solutions and Eco Ed Schwartz will be at the Garden State Greenfest, this Friday – Sunday at the Somerset, NJ Garden State Exhibit Center.

The first 10 people to call Eco Ed at 201-390-4280 to get free passes into the Greenfest.

Speakers include:

Ed Begley, Jr., Environmentalist & Actor
Tom Chapin, Entertainer
Phil Radford, Greenpeace Executive Director
Elizabeth Royte, Bestselling Author
...and many more!

The free pass is for all three days and has something for everyone: kids and teens, students and adults, and community leaders.

Don't forget to call Eco Ed at 201-390-4280 can get your free pass!

For more information about Greenfest, visit here.

BrightHome's Ed Schwartz Featured in Ridgewod Patch

2010-09-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

A Visit to the Oldest, Greenest House in New Jersey
The South Orange Historical and Preservation Society
offers a look inside a landmark home

South Orange is home to the state's oldest house, but Ridgewood has what is probably the greenest 18th century house. On September 26, the South Orange Historical and Preservation Society (SOHPS) will offer a rare opportunity to tour that green phenomenon.

The private home of Ed Schwartz will be opened to SOHPS members and non-members as a follow-up to a 2009 lecture at the South Orange Public Library.

The Ridgewood residence was built in 1767 and was expanded in 1860. It has been restored a third time by Schwartz over the last three years, using guidelines for sustainability and the Green Building Council. The home was used in case study for green renovations by the State Sustainability Institute in Rutgers.

Located at 26 East Glen Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, the house is known as the most sustainable historical residence in New Jersey. Not only are electric bills a thing of the past, but on average, the solar panels for this house generate a positive cash flow of $2,000 per year.

As part of the tour, Schwartz will show the alterations he has made from a green perspective, as well as from a historical renovation/preservation perspective. He will walk guests through such key points as the solar panels, the efficient utilities, and heating and cooling, as well as what he has done to preserve the historical aspects of the house.

Schwartz is a partner of BrightHome Energy Solutions, the home performance, green home, and sustainable-business consulting group.

Source: Ridgewood.Patch.com by Marcia Worth

End of the Petroleum Era: Greening Existing Buildings with Stephen Tilly, Architect

2010-09-20T07:14:00.000-07:00

Friday, September 24th from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm

What: Join us for a talk by Stephen Tilly, sustainability architect, inspiring speaker and designer of the innovative reuse of the Burnham Building in Irvington, which now houses the village Library and 22 units of Affordable Housing. A discussion of why the greenest, most energy efficient building (that helps to combat global climate change) is one you don't have to build will follow.

Delicious local and organic culinary treats provided by Chutney Masala.

Who Should Attend: A must for city planners, those who want to make their communities more sustainable and all interested in the relationship between existing buildings and the climate crisis

Location: The Irvington Village Public Library Meeting Room - across from the Irvington train Station

Tickets: $25 per person. One year membership to FCWC included. All proceeds to benefit FCWC and help support our work promoting a Sustainable Westchester.

Please register online, or by calling FCWC at (914) 422-4053

Register online: www.FCWC.org/ events

More About the Talk:
"The recent catastrophe in the Gulf has only too vividly brought home to us all the environmental consequences of our dependence on petroleum. As we look ahead to the end of the Petroleum Era, we have to deal with our own daily carbon "spills", the greatest part of which comes from our buildings. This illustrated talk will review the impact of our buildings and suggest that designing new green structures may be less important than (figuratively) getting out the booms and skimmers to clean up our existing buildings." - Steve Tilly, Architect

Bio: Stephen Tilly, AIA, LEED AP, principal of a 19 person urban design, landscape, architecture and preservation practice based in a former movie theater in Dobbs Ferry, New York. He graduated from M.I.T. in 1971 with a Master of Architecture. After doing research, planning and urban design work in Boston, Washington and New York, he became a partner in a firm based in New York's historic Soho district in the 1970s and 1980s. There he completed an award-winning solar house in South Carolina and numerous other projects. Mr. Tilly has worked since that time in his own firm on projects that reflect a broad range of interests from historic properties to urban design to sustainable planning and design to fine grain architectural design. He is a member of the International Association for Preservation Technology's Technical Committee on Sustainability. He lectures frequently in the US and Canada on architectural and planning issues, with a special emphasis on sustainability and preservation.

www.FCWC.org/events

Westchester County Offers Free Energy Audits

2010-09-07T09:30:00.000-07:00

BrightHome Energy Solutions Selected as Approved Contractor

Westchester launched a new program Tuesday Aug. 31, which offers free home energy assessments to homeowners who want to learn how they can make their homes more airtight and energy efficient, with the added benefit of saving money.

The Home Energy Assessment Program, sponsored by the Workforce Investment Board and the Business Council of Westchester, will be offering free home energy assessments for 2,000 county residents on a first-come first-serve basis.

As a partner and certified selected contractor, BrightHome Energy Solutions will participate in the free assessments and the homeowner can decide whether or not to go complete more comprehensive testing and repairs if needed.

“These assessments will not only be free, but they will save homeowners money in the long run,” said county executive Robert P. Astorino. “Once you get the facts and know how efficient your heating and cooling systems are, you can figure out what improvements are needed to make your home more energy efficient and reduce your energy bills.”

Starting today, homeowners can call 211 to set up an appointment with an authorized contractor such as BrightHome. A representative will screen the caller to determine whether they call for a free assessment and answer any questions. An authorized contractor will then call the homeowner directly within 24 hours to schedule an appointment.

The homeowner will get the results of the complimentary assessment immediately after the contractor’s visit. At that point, they would decide whether they should follow-up (at their expense) by hiring that contractor, or another, for a more comprehensive assessment, which usually involved several diagnostic tools and specialized computer software. If additional repairs are needed, the homeowner would need to arrange for those independently.

Call takers at the 211 call center can also help homeowners learn about federal grants or state incentive programs that could help with any needed repairs.

High Summer Bills Shock NY Residents

2010-09-01T10:26:00.000-07:00

Westchester Homeowner Finds Efficient Solution to Costly Bill

“I felt like I got punched in the stomach,” recalled one New York resident when he received the first bill of the summer. “The record heat resulted in a record bill. I already knew I had a problem due to my winter bills and I decided it was time to solve it once and for all.”

He called BrightHome for a whole house energy audit to see why his two-story, 1940 home performed poorly in the heat of summer and cold of winter. During the first phone call, he learned that he qualified for $4,500 in federal tax credits and state cash incentives.

That week, BrightHome energy savings consultant Tom Brown arrived at his home and performed a 75-point interior and exterior energy audit which took over four hours to complete. As a Building Performance Institute certified specialist, he began using BrightHome’s state-of-the-art energy efficiency diagnostic equipment.

Mr. Brown walked around the home with the resident, room-by-room, using a thermal imaging camera while running the blower door in order to discover the cause of the problems.

“To see the hot and cold spots on the thermal camera is amazing. It makes total sense where the problems are,” said the resident. “These are the same areas that my family avoids when temperatures are extreme.”

Mr. Brown then examined the home’s walls, basement, crawl spaces, attics, windows and ducts -- everywhere air leakage could occur. With the blower door test, he calculated exactly how much energy is being wasted by excessive airflow.

“It’s common for older homes to have excessive air leakage, this home had what is the equivalent of a two-by-three-foot open window year-round,” said Mr. Brown. “It overworks heating and cooling systems which increases utility bills and makes the house uncomfortable.”

“During the summer, our daughter’s bedroom is the hottest room in the house,” said the resident. “BrightHome’s energy audit revealed there was no insulation in the walls and the poor duct work was causing 30 percent of her room’s cool air to leak outside.”

In addition to checking for efficiency, Mr. Brown performed health and safety tests on all combustion equipment for gas leakage and carbon monoxide levels in the home.

“After Tom performed the energy audit, we received a detailed and comprehensive report on our home’s energy usage. He walked us through a room-by-room evaluation of our home’s energy usage and potential solutions. At first we were overwhelmed but he helped us identify our priorities and worked within our budget to reduce our energy costs and make us more comfortable,” said the resident.

BrightHome guarantees quality and energy savings because most work is completed by its team members. All BrightHome team members are required to pass a background check and drug test.

Insulation and air sealing were among the various solutions selected by the resident. Those measures that may cut his energy bill up to thirty percent annually.

“When the work was completed, we felt the difference. The cooling system isn’t on as much and the rooms stay comfortable. For the first time, I’m looking forward to our next energy bill!”

For more information on how to reduce your home’s energy usage, call BrightHome at 914-909-5300 or visit us at www.brighthome.com.

BrightHome is an approved NYSERDA contractor, BPI accredited and a founding member of Efficiency first.

7 Savvy Ways to Go Green At School

2010-08-04T13:38:00.000-07:00

It's back to school time! Whether your child is starting their very first year of school or inching closer to graduation, these seven savvy tips will reduce their daily impact on the environment and make them the smartest kids in the class.

7. Trash Free Lunches. Pack a trash free lunch by using reusable lunch boxes and containers. Fresh foods and fruit are great healthy alternatives to prepackaged snacks. Instead of packing a napkin, pack a washcloth for the student to wipe their hands and face.

6. Green Transportation. On days that the weather is nice, encourage your kids to bike or walk to school with friends. On rainy or snowy days, be sure to have a neighborhood carpool plan in place to reduce traffic and minimize carbon emissions.

5. Reusable water bottles. Ditch the plastic water bottles and stick with a reusable canteen that can be refilled all year long.

4. The Write Stuff. Mechanical pencils are handy tools that will last your child all year long with its refillable lead. For younger kids, try recycled newspaper pencils.

3. Create Recycled Textbook Covers. Most schools require their students to cover their textbooks to prevent wear and tear throughout the year. Use the sturdy brown paper bags from the grocery store or funny comics from the newspaper.

2. Clear the Air. Make sure your child’s school air is safe. Petition the school board to do so through the EPA’s Healthy School Environment Resources. HSER is your gateway to on-line resources to help facility managers, school administrators, architects, design engineers, school nurses, parents, teachers and staff address environmental health issues in schools.

1. Start a Recycling Program. Use HSER's resources to petition the school board to go green by implementing recycling and composting programs.

BrightHome Helps Westchester Residents Reduce Home Energy Bills, Stay Cool

2010-08-01T10:33:00.000-07:00

Unique Approach is Saving Homeowners up to 40% Every Month

One year ago, BrightHome Energy Solutions opened its doors with the goal of offering Westchester County homeowners a “single source” option for an unbiased and comprehensive evaluation of their homes’ energy usage.

In addition to a comprehensive whole home energy audit, BrightHome recommends the appropriate solutions and is able to implement these solutions.

“I was impressed with how thorough the BrightHome technicians were,” explains a Rye resident and BrightHome customer. “They did a whole house audit, top to bottom and explained how I could save money and be more comfortable. I was surprised that it cost less than I anticipated. They guaranteed a specific percentage of energy savings and they delivered.”

Another BrightHome customer in White Plains says, “The positive results of their work were immediate. Our house is less drafty and feels much more comfortable…and the financial proof is in the pudding – our energy use year-on-year decreased right away.”

Tom Brown, an Energy Savings Consultant at BrightHome explains the concept, “We adopt a whole house approach, meaning we analyze every aspect of your home and how it works or doesn’t work in unison. Is your home too leaky? Is it properly insulated? Is your heating and cooling system properly sized? Are the windows and doors properly sealed? Is the air you breathe safe and healthy?”

“We're able to guarantee energy savings because of our in-depth audit and analysis of your home. We evaluate each home individually and design custom solutions to fix your homes problems. We can guarantee the quality and the energy savings because BrightHome team members do all the work. If you need insulation, we install it. Replacement windows and doors, we install them. The same for high efficiency air conditioning and furnace systems,” said Brown.

Right now, there are state cash back incentives that help homeowners pay for improvements that reduce energy usage. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, or NYSERDA, offers cash back incentives up to $3,000 and zero or low-interest financing with the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Program. $1,500 in federal tax credits is available until Dec. 31, 2010.

In order to qualify for these incentives, work must be completed by a BPI certified contractor like BrightHome. BPI is a national resource for building science technology that sets standards for assessing and improving the energy performance, as well as the health and safety of homes. Each participating contractor undergoes rigorous training to become certified.

Many BrightHome customers are able to pay for the improvements with these incentives and realize enough savings from lower energy bills for a good return on their investment.

“This is a real win-win-win situation,” said Tom Brown. “Homeowners are saving on monthly bills, living in a more comfortable and healthier home- plus lowering carbon emissions and reducing harm to the environment.”

Homeowners are encouraged to have their home evaluated by a trained energy expert. The comprehensive home energy assessment, or energy audit, costs only a few hundred dollars, but the data can be worth thousands.

If you want to save on your energy bills, reduce your energy consumption and be more comfortable contact Tom Brown at 914-909-5300 or visit the BrightHome website at www.brighthome.com for more information.

BrightHome is an approved NYSERDA contractor, BPI accredited and a founding member of Efficiency First.

What's the HomeStar Bill?

2010-07-29T15:40:00.000-07:00

You may have heard about the HomeStar Bill in the news... Its the bill that also goes by the name of Cash for Caulkers. Here’s the basics of whats proposed in the bill and what it means to you as a homeowner:

Rebates delivered directly to consumers: Like the Cash for Clunkers program, consumers would be eligible for direct HOMESTAR rebates at the point of sale for a variety of energy-saving investments in their homes. A broad array of vendors, from small independent building material dealers, large national home improvement chains, energy efficiency installation professionals like BrightHome and utility energy efficiency programs (including rural utilities) would provide the directly to consumers and then be reimbursed by the federal government.

$1,000 - $1,500 Silver Star Rebates: Consumers looking to have simple upgrades performed in their homes would be eligible for 50% rebates up to $1,000 - $1,500 for doing any of a straightforward set of upgrades, including: insulation, duct sealing, water heaters, HVAC units, windows, roofing and doors. Under Silver Star, consumers can chose a combination of upgrades for rebates up to a maximum of $3,000 per home. Rebates would be limited to the most energy efficient categories of upgrades—focusing on products made primarily in the United States and installed by certified contractors. Go to BrightHome's services here.

$3000 Gold Star Rebates: Consumers interested in more comprehensive energy retrofits would be eligible for a $3,000 rebate for a whole home energy audit and subsequent retrofit from a company like BrightHome, tailored to achieve a 20% energy savings in their homes. Consumers could receive additional rebate amounts for energy savings in excess of 20%. Gold Star would build on existing whole home retrofit programs, like EPA’s successful Home Performance with Energy Star program.

Oversight to Ensure Quality Installations: The program would require that contractors be certified to perform efficiency installations. Independent quality assurance providers would conduct field audits after work is completed to ensure proper installation so consumers receive energy savings from their upgrades. States would oversee the implementation of quality assurance to ensure that the program was moving the industry toward more robust standards and comprehensive energy retrofit practices. Go to BrightHome's certifications here.

Support for financing: The program would include support to State and local governments to provide financing options for consumers seeking to make efficiency investments in their homes. This will help ensure that consumers can afford to make these investments. Go to BrightHome's tax incentive information here.

Mike Brown in DC, BrightHome Certified Lead-Safe firm

2010-07-20T13:39:00.000-07:00

Mike Brown here-- last week I visited my daughters, who are both in the great city of Washington DC for the summer!

This is my daughter Claire, a Senior this year at Texas A&M, who is interning at the EPA this summer as the Special Assistant to Carl Mazza, Science Advisor Office of Air and Radiation, EPA.

This is my daughter Megan, a second year law student at New York University and graduate of the University of Texas, who is working this summer at the United States Attorney’s Office for Washington DC.

Just after my visit to the EPA, BrightHome received its certification from the EPA as Lead-Safe Firm. This means our consultants and contractors will take the appropriate steps to keep you and your family safe.

$3,000 of Rebates Expires Today!

2010-07-15T13:02:00.000-07:00

Have you made the switch to a natural gas-fired heating system?

Con Edison customers residing in one to four family homes, who both convert to a natural gas-fired heating system and have a participating contractor such as BrightHome to install eligible high-efficiency gas-fired heating equipment, may be eligible to receive both a conversion rebate of $2,000 and an equipment rebate of up to $1,000.

Health & Environmental Benefits of Natural Gas:

• Gas-powered hot-water heaters provide precise temperature control and quick recovery time for hot showers and baths

• Natural gas produces less particulates when it is burned, so fewer harmful particles will enter your lungs

• Natural gas has lower emission levels of the criteria pollutants regulated by the Clean Air Act, and carbon dioxide, the principal greenhouse gas.

• Carbon dioxide emissions are about 42% lower for gas-heated residences than those heated with oil.

• The use of natural gas in your home can help you conserve natural resources because it reduces energy production.

The deadline for this program is July 15, 2010! BrightHome will provide the applications, proposals and work requests required to complete the program.

Just give us a call at 914.909.5300 and we will get started the natural gas-fired heating system that will cut your energy costs!

Top 10 Ways to Beat The Heat

2010-07-07T13:03:00.000-07:00

It's pretty hot right now in New York City. With temperatures reaching 100+ degrees, we've come up with 10 easy ways to cool off. Most of them can be done right now!

1. Start with yourself. Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated. Avoid beverages that contain alcohol, caffeine, or lots of sugar, which are dehydrating.

2. Dress for the heat. Weather you’re indoors or outdoors, wear loose, comfortable clothing that breathes easily and dries fast.

3. Sweep your system. Clean or replace the filter in room and central air conditioners once a month during the summer. If you have central air-conditioning, have the ducts checked for leaks, which can reduce a system's efficiency by as much as 15 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Seal any cracks between a window unit and the frame with caulking or a sealant strip. These steps help ensure good airflow and keep the coils cleaner, which means more efficient and more effective cooling.

4. Sun block. Closing curtains and blinds reduces the amount of heat that passes into your home by as much as 45 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

5. Invest in efficiency. Consider updating your Air Conditioning system, if it is older than 15 years, or minimally efficient. Newer systems will save you money and more properly handle your cooling load.

6. Insulate & ventilate.Be sure that your home is properly insulated, and your attic is properly ventilated. An energy audit will help you assess the home accurately. Proper insulation will also help you’re A/C to cool more efficiently.

7. The fan trick. Ceiling fans provide air movement that leads to lower perceived temperature on your skin. Be sure to turn them off when you’re out of the house, as they do not cool down air.

8. Shut it down. Set your computer or laptop to go into low-power "sleep" mode if you are away from it for more than 10 minutes and it will give off less heat. When you're finished for the day, shut the machine down completely.

9. Give your dishwasher a vacation. Instead, leave the door open to let the dishes dry. And put off using the dishwasher until evening, when the air is cooler. Or simply wash your dishes the old-fashioned way: by hand.

10. Ditto to the clothes-drying machine. Try line-drying your clothes. You will save tons of energy, and eliminate any heat normally caused by the inevitable energy monster.

BrightHome's Eco-Ed for NorthJersey.com

2010-07-02T10:08:00.000-07:00

Schwartz: Will any good come from Gulf oil spill?

By EDWARD SCHWARTZ

As I have received so many questions regarding the Gulf oil spill, it was difficult to choose one that best captured the sentiment of all of your concerns. Therefore, I have scrapped the usual format and will seek to address those questions and concerns.

The situation in the Gulf of Mexico is truly disastrous. Estimates vary wildly on the amount of oil unleashed into our waters, but the consensus is the same: This is an accident of epic proportions. We see the visible impact, with tar balls, bands of sludge and birds covered in oil, but what is unseen could hold far greater reaching consequences.

The impact will not be fully realized for years, as marshes, estuaries, spawning grounds, etc. try in vain to escape the damage. Devastation of sensitive coral reefs and less visible life forms could conceivably permanently impact the entire food chain in this region. That is not even considering if the oil makes its way up the Gulf Stream, impacting the entire Atlantic Seaboard.

Among the rhetoric and comments I have received, people seem to be in two camps. The first seeks to blame BP. It is now clear that they consciously took steps to put profits over safety on many occasions, and we will bear the brunt of their risk-taking. The second speaks about our government's slow responsiveness, or holds the Obama administration in particular, as the Pariah. They based many of their early assumptions on the estimates provided by BP, and clearly misjudged the potential impact of the early explosion of the oil rig. Once more accurate data was available, it was clear that it was too late. There are limited actions for slowing the leak, and the damage has already been done.

I am not choosing sides here. Believe me, there is enough blame to go around. The awareness that I am proposing is that we are all to blame. Our insatiable appetite for oil and other fossil fuels is at the core of what makes this situation possible in the first place. We enjoy vehicles that are larger, on average, than those used in other countries. Every time we choose a vehicle and put looks, status, performance, etc. over consideration for the mileage and emissions, we are supporting this behavior. Every time we drive into town or school, instead of walking or riding a bicycle, we are implicitly condoning it. Our homes are estimated to waste an average of 40 percent of the energy used, but we choose to turn a blind eye. We continue to leave lights on, leave computers on overnight, not focus attention on making sure our homes are efficiently sealed and insulated, and that the heating/cooling systems are efficient and performing properly.

If there is one positive that can come from this unfortunate "accident," it would be that we, as a society, take a deep look within ourselves and our behavior. There is a way that we can feel less helpless to avoid an event like this in the future.

We can:

* Support more renewable energy sources for both homes and vehicles.

* Consider available options besides using fossil fuels.

* Drive less and with more efficient vehicles.

* Have a home energy audit done, and develop a plan to target reducing wasted energy use.

* Support our local farmer's market, where products are grown locally, and not shipped in from around the world.

* Support local stores and businesses, which require less travel.

* Use our power as consumers to purchase products that use less packaging or use resources more efficiently.

Together we can all make a difference. In the meantime, enjoy the summer and be thankful that our beaches (and our own Graydon Pond) are cleaner then they have been in years.

Ed Schwartz is the chairperson of the Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee, the coordinator of Sustainable Energy for the North Jersey Chapter of the Sierra Club, Certified Energy and Sustainability Consultant, and co-founder of Green Living Solutions in New Jersey. He is a partner in BrightHome Energy Solutions, NJ, and has restored his own historical home in Ridgewood, using energy saving and sustainable practices. Eco-Ed can be reached at ed.schwartz@brighthome.com.

[source]

BrightHome Urges New Jersey Residents to Act Fast on Energy Efficiency Tax Incentives

2010-06-25T13:16:00.000-07:00

Ridgewood, NJ. June 23, 2010— “The window to qualify for funds is limited," said "Eco Ed" Schwartz, "the 2010 budget appropriation may not last to the end of the year. Rebate levels have already been lowered. Consumers should apply immediately."

In the wake of budget cuts, the New Jersey Office of Clean Energy announced new energy reduction financing and tax incentives to homeowners in New Jersey. The new program is expected to begin July 21 and expire Dec. 31, 2010 or when the funds are depleted.

“Homeowners may qualify for up to $3,000 in cash back rebates and up to $10,000 in low or no interest loans,” said Mr. Schwartz.

The program is an extension of Home Performance with ENERGY STAR. The combination of financing and cash rebates is intended to reduce energy usage and help lower utility bills. Details of the new incentive include:

Money Back for Energy Saving Solutions
• Homeowners may qualify for a maximum rebate of 50% of eligible measures with a maximum of $3,000 for customers that reach over a 25% estimated energy savings level. Eligible measures include air sealing, insulation, high efficiency hot water heaters, and HVAC systems.
• Homeowners that fall into the 5% and 25% estimated energy savings level may qualify for a 10% rebate and receive up to $1300 in cash back incentives.

Low-Interest Financing
• 0% financing up to 50% of eligible measures with a $10,000 maximum for customers with estimated energy savings above 25%.
• 5.99% financing available for customers with estimated energy savings of 5%-25%. Also up to $10,000.

Mr. Schwartz is a green activist and certified sustainability expert. He has appeared on CNBC and “This Old House”. He is the Coordinator of Sustainable Energy for The Sierra Club of Northern Jersey, Chair Person of Ridgewood’s Environmental Advisory Committee and is certified by the New Jersey Clean Energy Program and the Building Performance Institute. His pre-revolutionary home in Ridgewood, New Jersey gained national recognition for its green renovation.

"Eco Ed" Schwartz and BrightHome offer a comprehensive, whole-house approach to improving energy efficiency and comfort at home, while protecting the environment. BrightHome conducts energy audits and implements energy-saving solutions while helping New Jersey homeowners take advantage of these incentives.
Ed Schwartz is available for comment at 877-861-1818.

Finance Your Energy Efficient Home

2010-06-14T12:49:00.000-07:00

With today's financing options, cash back incentives and tax credits, Energy Audits and home energy solutions are more affordable than ever.

By implementing the proper measures, you could be cutting your home energy bills by 40%—savings that start paying dividends the very first month.

Our finance options include a low-interest New York Energy Star loan, NYSERDA Assisted Home Performance with Energy Star® loan, and both secured and unsecured FHA Title-One Home Improvement Loans. Some of these state-funded opportunities may not be available next year, so take advantage of them now! For a detailed look at these options, click here.

Call BrightHome today at 914-909-5300 to find out what you can do to start saving money on your energy bills.

You'll feel better and pay less with a Bright Home!

BrightHome & Sustainable South Bronx

2010-06-14T10:41:00.000-07:00

Remember when BrightHome announced 23 new green-collar jobs? One of our new hires, Felix, is featured is this CCN Money video highlighting Sustainable South Bronx's program to address policy and planning issues like land use, energy, transportation, water, waste, education, and, most recently, design and manufacturing.

The Heat Is On!

2010-05-07T12:27:00.001-07:00

We've created a several videos to address energy issues that arise during summer, and things you can do to have complete comfort during those hot summer days. Some of these solutions not only cut energy costs, but will add value and curb appeal to your home.

Ed Schwarts talks about efficient cooling systems and why you should do more than just change your filters. Heating and cooling your home can account for as much as 50% of your energy bill and your decisions can significantly reduce these costs.

Tom Brown discusses the benefits of efficient windows. BrightHome doesn't simply replace your windows, we ensure that all of your windows and doors are installed air tight and insulated properly to maximize the benefit of your investment and tightness of your home.

Tom also talks about how replacement doors with Energy Star rated U-Values, or how well a building element conducts heat, and low-emittance glass coatings will support your house as an energy-efficient system.

ACI Convention 2010

2010-04-21T10:10:00.000-07:00

BrightHome is in Austin, TX this week for the Affordable Comfort Institute Convention - Home Energy Retro Fit Summit.

The ACI Home Performance Conference creates a forum where forward-thinking people meet to explore building science know-how and high growth career prospects. This year, our program will address both hot and cold climate issues, with a focus on energy retrofit for whole house solutions.

BrightHome fully supports the whole house approach and looks forward to learning more about this concept and meeting the people in the industry who are developing new ideas and techniques to make home comfort more affordable.

Mike Brown and Tom Brown visiting Austin's famous HEY CUPCAKE food trailer.

Efficient Heating & Cooling

2010-04-20T10:26:00.000-07:00

This week we talked Ed Schwartz about efficient heating & cooling for the home. As Summer approaches and homeowners start turning on their cooling systems, energy gets wasted through cracks in sealing and ducts throughout the home. Sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by as much as 20 percent — and sometimes much more.

Also, something you can do RIGHT NOW is check your filter every month, especially during the summer. If the filter looks dirty after a month, change it. Dirty filters slow down air flow and makes your system work harder to keep cool. Clean filters prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system — leading to expensive maintenance or early system failure.

Customer Satisfaction

2010-04-08T09:53:00.000-07:00

New York experienced a record-breaking winter this pasted year. Some residents stayed cozy and saved money on their energy bills throughout the season with BrightHome's energy efficient solutions.

We love the way the house is actually warm now. If we turn off the heat overnight, the place is still comfortable the next morning.

- Limarie, Harrison, New York

See what else our customers are saying about BrightHome's Energy Solutions.

View the BrightHome customer comments page.

My Earth Hour

2010-03-26T14:26:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, March 27, 2010 at 8:30 p.m. local time, Earth Hour will once again cascade around the globe, from New Zealand to Hawaii.

BrightHome just pledged to turn off its lights for World Wildlife Fund's Earth Hour - largest climate action ever. Thanks to the committed people working in our state government, New York is an official Earth Hour State.

Vote with BrightHome at myearthhour.org

BrightHome Launches New Jersey Venture

2010-03-04T09:36:00.000-08:00

New York Energy Solutions Company Partners with Green Living Solutions

BrightHome Energy Solutions and Green Living Solutions of New Jersey, have formed a joint venture to serve Northern New Jersey.

The new partnership enables BrightHome to expand its energy-reduction services and solutions to the New Jersey market. BrightHome's services help alleviate the problems that many homeowner's experience: High energy bills, inconsistent room temperatures, drafty floors, musty smells and uncomfortable hot and cold areas of the home.

Edward Schwartz, co-founder of Green Living Solutions, will continue his role as leader of the New Jersey offices. As a Certified Energy Professional and Sustainability Consultant Ed serves residential, business and municipal communities. “Eco-Ed” works with homeowners, builders and architects to provide services such as energy audits, green/sustainability analyses, and selection and implementation of sustainable building materials and technologies during renovations and new construction.

“Ed brings a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience to the team,” said Joe Kaplan, the president of BrightHome. “His expertise with green technologies and renewable energy makes him an incredible resource for BrightHome’s customers.”

Ed’s activism includes educating schools and communities about home energy efficiency, eco-friendly landscaping and healthier cleaning products that lowers people’s carbon footprint along with their impact on global warming.

Ed currently serves as the Coordinator of Sustainable Energy for the North Jersey Chapter of the Sierra Club, and is certified by the New Jersey Clean Energy Program and the Building Performance Institute.

BrightHome on Green Job Spider Blog

2010-02-24T09:09:00.000-08:00

BrightHome Chief Operating Officer Mike Brown sits down with C.M. Russel to discuss BrightHome's company history and development of green jobs in today's market on the Green Job Spider Blog.

Mike describes what he looks for in potential and employees, explains the benefits of energy audits, and talks about how the stimulus package has affected BrightHome.

According to it's site, Green Job Spider is the only job search engine for finding jobs in the green job market.

Listen to the podcast at Green Job Spider Blog.

Meet Eco Ed

2010-02-17T08:11:00.000-08:00

Edward Schwartz is the co-founder of Green Living Solutions and partner in BrightHome Energy Solutions, NJ. As a Certified Energy Professional and Sustainability Consultant he serves residential, business and municipal communities.

“Eco-Ed” works with homeowners, builders and architects to provide services such as energy audits, green/sustainability analysis, selecting and implementing sustainable building materials and technologies during renovations and new construction.

Ed is active in local communities and schools educating on subjects such as home energy efficiency, eco-friendly landscaping, environmentally-preferable shopping, and healthier cleaning products, to help people lower their “carbon footprint” along with their impact on global warming.

As the former chair person of the Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee, Ed rejuvenated the Village’s efforts to adopt more sustainable practices, along with helping businesses and homeowners to save energy, money, and reduce their carbon footprints. Ed serves as the Coordinator of Sustainable Energy for the North Jersey Chapter of the Sierra Club, and is certified by the Clean Energy Program and the Building Performance Institute.

He is in the process of restoring his own historical pre-revolutionary home using energy saving methods and sustainable practices, and has written guidelines for local Historical Preservation Societies for renovations using sustainable practices.

BrightHome Hires Andrew Fischer

2010-02-16T12:23:00.000-08:00

Andrew Fischer joined BrightHome in 2010, and is a BPI Certified Building
Analyst that holds a BPI Completion Certificate for Shell and Heating. He
has performed more than 180 Energy Audits. His dedication to energy
efficiency education makes him a huge asset to BrightHome.

Andrew has been trained and certified by Apricus, Sunda and Enerworks for
solar thermal water heating, Uni-solar Ovanics for solar power installation,
American Lung Association for health house inspection, National Comfort
Institute for air balancing & diagnostics, Field Controls for combustion air
diagnostics, RESNET for training and testing HERS Rating and ASHRAE/NYSERDA
for designing energy efficient data centers.

He belongs to the Building Performance Contractors Association and the
Association of Energy Engineers and volunteers for Habitat for Humanity. You
may have seen him on the TV show “Take Charge,” educating viewers about the
benefits of energy efficient green homes.

SAVE $ WITH THE GREAT APPLIANCE SWAP OUT

2010-02-15T12:41:00.000-08:00

BrightHome Energy Solutions is participating in New York State Energy Research and Development Authority's (NYSERDA) Great Appliance Swap Out, a program designed to save you money for purchasing ENERGY STAR qualified appliances now through February 21, 2010. Rebates are offered on a first come, first served basis, so it's important for you to act now!

For more information, go to BrightHome's Great Appliance Swap Out Info Page.

BRIGHTHOME BRINGS MORE GREEN JOBS TO NEW YORK STATE

2010-01-14T14:06:00.000-08:00

BrightHome Energy Solutions has hired 23 employees since its kick off in August 2009; 17 of whom were previously unemployed.

The company’s fast paced growth in the home weatherization sector has resulted in 23 new "green-collar" jobs for positions such as energy savings consultants, contractors, carpenters, caulkers, insulators and sales associates.

“It's fantastic to see growth in our community and to provide jobs when the unemployment picture is so bleak. Especially in an industry that promotes energy efficiency and clean energy solutions for the environment,” said chief operating officer, Mike Brown.

BrightHome's workforce helps homeowners in Westchester County reduce energy consumption and save money on energy bills. Using state-of-the-art thermal detection equipment and highly effective insulating and sealing techniques, homeowners report up to 40% lower energy bills and are enjoying a warmer, more comfortable home during winter months.

“Our employees couldn’t be happier. They really enjoy implementing our energy-saving solutions,” said Brown. "They're helping families live better by reducing energy costs and making informed decisions to help the environment."

BrightHome's comprehensive home energy assessment, also known as energy audit, is the first step in BrightHome’s diagnostic process. A BrightHome energy consultant inspects the home inside and out, checking each room's efficiency and safety. The exterior is checked for structural deficiencies and leakage points. The detailed assessment covers more than 75 inspection points.

BrightHome offers a wide range of services including comprehensive home assessments (also known as energy audits), air sealing, HVAC installation and repair, insulation, ENERGY STAR® products and energy-efficient windows and doors.

Home Energy Assessment With Tom Brown

2010-01-08T09:32:00.000-08:00

What should you expect when you get a Comprehensive Home Energy Assessment with BrightHome Energy Solutions?

BrightHome's energy savings consultant Tom Brown walks you through a typical energy audit and explains how to rid your home of cold, drafty rooms and reduce your energy costs.

For more information on an energy audit, go to energy audits.

Green Jobs Available at BrightHome

2010-01-07T13:56:00.000-08:00

We're hiring!

BrightHome is looking for talented and experienced carpenters, general laborers, general managers, heating & cooling installers, insulators and auditor/sales people.

To view and apply for new positions, go to BrightHome Green Jobs.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T14:06:00.000-08:00

Wishing You and Yours a Prosperous & Green New Year from BrightHome Energy Solutions

News Update

2009-12-17T10:08:00.000-08:00

Fueled by the proposed 'Cash For Caulkers' program, news outlets all over the United States are running the same story: What you can do to your home to make it more energy efficient.

Across the board, homeowners are encouraged to repair air-leaks and insulate their homes as the first step to reducing energy-use.

BrightHome uses a detailed comprehensive home assessment which includes, a blower door test, infrared cameras and extensive home survey to identify and quantify the work scope and energy savings.

For more information, visit these news links:

Homeowners Getting a Push to Caulk, Insulate Those Air Leaks - Wall Street Journal

Building Performance Institute Included in 'Cash for Caulkers' Recommendation from President's Economic Recovery Advisory Board - Building Performance Institute

Obama Administration Weighs Incentives for Home Improvement - Wall Street Journal

Obama’s Cash for Caulkers Proposal Offers up to $12,000 Per Home

2009-12-09T10:48:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, President. Obama outlined proposals intended to promote the creation of green jobs.

The proposals included:

- incentives for small businesses to hire more workers
- additional money to build roads and other construction projects
- rebates for homeowners who invest in energy-saving improvements
- eliminating capital gains taxes on small business investment

Obama said he wanted more subsidies for green jobs. The administration received far more qualified applications, particularly from makers of wind turbines and solar panels, than it had money to give.

$24 million for Green Projects Across New York

2009-11-02T10:29:00.000-08:00

Governor David A. Paterson today announced that $24 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding has been awarded to support 87 energy conservation projects across New York that will help implement energy efficiency, renewable energy and clean fleet projects.

These projects will reduce energy and operating costs by more than $6.5 million annually and fully return the initial investment in just over five years. Through these awards New York continues to invest in a clean energy economy and achieve Governor Paterson’s goal of meeting 45 percent of our energy needs through energy efficiency and renewable energy by 2015.

The projects, which were competitively selected under the State Energy Program, represent the first step of funding from a program that will total $74 million. Additional awards are expected to be made before the end of the year. Measures funded include installation of lighting and lighting controls, solar photovoltaic systems, high efficiency biomass boilers, solar thermal and small wind generators and alternative-fuel refueling stations and vehicles. Award recipients include municipalities, public schools, universities and colleges, hospitals and not-for-profit agencies.

Francis J. Murray, Jr., NYSERDA President and CEO said: “Implementing energy efficiency and conservation measures is absolutely critical to achieving the State’s mission to reduce energy consumption, protect the environment and attain energy security. The State Energy Program fits hand in glove with the Governor’s ambitious energy goals of meeting 45 percent of the State’s electricity needs through improved energy efficiency and renewable energy by 2015, and reducing greenhouse gas pollution within the State by 80 percent by the year 2050. NYSERDA looks forward to working with the award recipients to help them achieve the greatest savings possible.”

New York State's Green Jobs Bill

2009-10-29T09:28:00.000-07:00

News from New York State Department of Labor

The State Department of Labor and the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) today highlighted New York State's plans to create green jobs and stimulate investment in weatherization and energy efficiency improvements for residential and commercial buildings in the Southern Tier, and across the state, through the Green Jobs/Green New York Act.

Governor David A. Paterson recently signed the act into law -- which targets the creation of hundreds of jobs across the Southern Tier -- to help prepare New Yorkers to secure jobs in the 21st century clean energy economy.

State Labor Commissioner M. Patricia Smith said, "Governor Paterson's Green Energy Bill will stimulate job creation and retention, support workforce development and advance pathways out of poverty. We all want this state to be a place that attracts and retains the best and the brightest talent, and the potential on all fronts with green is limitless."

To help connect job seekers with opportunities the State has launched a new web site to assist those seeking to enter the new green job sector. The site www.greencareersny.com is designed to make it easy for individuals, businesses and workforce professionals to find the State's local training programs and green job opportunities.

The Green Jobs/Green New York Act directs the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to establish revolving loan and green jobs training programs to retrofit homes to conserve energy. Loans will be capped at $13,000 for residential and $26,000 for commercial properties. The program will target middleclass homeowners and small businesses that will pay back the loan out of what they save on their energy bills. The job training component will focus on new entrants to the workforce and displaced workers. The training programs and any education and enrollment efforts will be subjected to a competitive procurement process available to community based-organizations.

To fund the weatherization loan program and establish the statewide green jobs training program, NYSERDA will use a portion of $112 million from the auction of carbon emission credits through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).

The Green Jobs bill will allow the State to increase its existing and successful weatherization efforts that are already underway. The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) will eventually administer $394 million in funds under American Recover and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). By the end of this month, $190 million in 64 contracts, representing every county in New York, will be executed as part of the WAP program. Under WAP, a minimum of 45,000 residential units will be weatherized in New York State.

Smart Grid Investment Grant

2009-10-27T09:18:00.000-07:00

The Obama administration named 100 utility projects that will share $3.4 billion in federal stimulus funding to use technology designed to reduce energy use and make the electric-power grid more robust.

The $3.4 billion in Smart Grid Investment Grant awards are part of the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act, and will be matched by industry funding for a total public-private investment worth more than $8 billion.

The U.S. Department of Energy said grants of $400,000 to $200 million will lead to the installation of at least 18 million advanced digital meters, which will bring the nation's total to about 40 million, or enough to cover one-quarter to one-third of U.S. homes.

The new meters, also known as "smart" meters, are funded by the stimulus grants differ from conventional meters because they are electronic and they contain communicating modules and software that enables them to receive signals and communicate to utilities or to utility customers. They are the strength of demand-reduction efforts because they will allow utilities to charge different rates at different times of day and they can notify consumers when grid conditions require special action.

The Department of Energy said that the stimulus funds will improve efficiency all along the grid including electric substations, power lines, transformers and meters.

About 200,000 new generation transformers will alert utilities before they fail. Currently, utilities often use a "run to fail" approach in which they often only replace equipment when it breaks.

Energy Department officials stressed, in a press briefing Monday evening, that consumers will benefit from the investments. New meters and energy monitoring systems will give consumers better information to manage their energy use, and make it easier for power companies to use more renewable energy. Electricity from wind turbines or solar power systems tends to come in uneven bursts -- when the wind is strong or the sun bright. Proponents of the investments say a digital grid would be better able to handle those ups and downs.

NYSERDA Develops Solar For New York State

2009-10-22T07:42:00.000-07:00

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is working with Ascent Solar Technologies on the development of light weight flexible structures that include energy production from solar electric modules produced by Ascent Solar.

"From a New York perspective, the potential for this firm to bring product development and manufacturing to the Empire State is very encouraging and supports Governor Paterson's goal to attract clean energy efficiency manufacturing jobs to our state." said NYSERDA President and CEO Francis J. Murray, Jr.

The development work will be carried out under a $22,500 collaborative agreement between FTL Solar and the Center for Advanced Microelectronic Manufacturing in Endicott, and the Center for Autonomous Solar at Binghamton University.

Recovery Through Retrofit

2009-10-19T12:52:00.000-07:00

The Obama administration is endorsing a plan to let homeowners finance the cost of energy-efficiency improvements through property tax assessments.

The proposal is one of several that would help cut U.S. energy consumption while creating jobs in industries that make and install energy-efficient products such as insulation, Vice President Joe Biden said today in an event to unveil the plan.

Retrofitting homes with insulation and weather-proofing doors can save “at a minimum, between 300 and 1,200 bucks a year,” Biden said. “You get pay-back real quick on these investments.”

Biden said the proposal builds on provisions of the $787 billion stimulus package passed by Congress earlier. As part of the stimulus, the Energy Department was given $7.6 billion to dole out to states to weatherproof homes and other energy efficiency efforts. The administration, which has been promoting the legislation’s impact on employment, said the provision meets the twin goals of boosting jobs in so-called green industries and helping the U.S. cut greenhouse-gas emissions.

Each year, Americans spend $1,500 to $3,000 to heat and air condition their homes, Biden said. Paying for improvements on property tax bills would let homeowners spread the cost of the investment over time.

In addition, the new initiative, dubbed Recovery Through Retrofit, would provide wider access to reliable information about increasing the energy efficiency, set national standards for training of workers to perform such jobs and create a certification process identifying energy-efficient homes.

Retrofitting the nation’s 130 million homes for energy efficiency would cut greenhouse gas emissions by as much 20 percent, the equivalent of taking 30 million cars off the road, Biden said. Savings on energy bills would amount to $21 billion annually, he said.

Proposal Submitted for the Great Appliance Swap Out

2009-10-19T08:01:00.000-07:00

Governor David A. Paterson announced that New York submitted a plan for federal approval that would provide consumers with rebates for purchasing certain energy-efficient refrigerators, clothes washers, freezers and dishwashers through a program funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

If New York’s plan is approved by federal government, the Great Appliance Swap Out program will allow the State to issue nearly 170,000 rebates totaling $16.8 million.

“New York must continue to build a clean energy economy that will cut our energy costs and reduce our greenhouse gas pollution. This program will provide an important boost to the economy, while encouraging consumers all across New York to buy appliances that reduce energy consumption,” Governor Paterson said. “We thank President Obama and our entire Congressional Delegation for working to make this critical stimulus funding available. Without this federal funding, which will provide much-needed economic stimulus in New York, we would not have pursued this program. We look forward to receiving DOE approval and moving forward in offering these cost- and energy-saving benefits to New Yorkers.”

NYSERDA President and CEO Francis J. Murray, Jr. said: “Consumers can save hundreds of dollars a year by replacing an old appliance with the appliances we’ve included in our rebate program. The program will not only help consumers save money and reduce the environmental impact of older appliances, but will help us meet the Governor’s ambitious goals of improving our environment and decreasing our energy usage in the future.”

James R. Sherin, President and CEO of the Retail Council of New York State, said: “New technologies make new appliances for the home more energy efficient. We applaud Governor Paterson and NYSERDA for mapping out a rebate program that will help put those appliances into the homes of New Yorkers who need and want them and for working with the retail industry to ensure that it’s something we can deliver to the consumer. The rebate makes a great incentive for New Yorkers to make their households greener than ever.”

Under the proposed plan, consumers could receive rebates for purchasing eligible appliances individually or in a bundle. Appliances will qualify only if they have earned the ENERGY STAR® label, meaning that they are up to 30 percent more efficient than standard models on the market.

Consumers must be New York State residents to be eligible for the proposed rebate program. Appliances can be purchased at any retail location and must meet specified ENERGY STAR or CEE standards. The program is open only to individuals purchasing appliances for their own use. Adequate documentation of recycling must be included to receive the maximum rebate amount and the rebate cannot be combined with other appliance rebate programs from utilities or municipalities. The rebate can, however, be combined with other manufacturer rebates or retail promotions.

Westchester Fall Home Show: Part 2

2009-10-14T13:59:00.000-07:00

The BrightHome team handed out 178 Compact Fluorescent (CFL) light bulbs to homeowners at the Westchester Fall Home Show at Pace Univeristy last week.

We got to thinking -- What's in a number?

178 CFL bulbs will last 1,602,000 more hours than 178 incandescent bulbs.
178 CFL bulbs will save $15,664 over 178 incandescent bulbs.
178 CFL bulbs will save about 175,864 lbs. of CO2 over 178 incandescent bulbs.

Here's a few tips on how to get the most out of your CFL bulbs:

Do the twist. Screw in your CFL by holding the ballast (the white plastic part), NOT the glass tubing.

Don’t flip too fast. You’ll maximize the lifetime savings and effectiveness of your CFLs by keeping them on for 15 minutes or more at a time.

Choose 3 for 3. Only use bulbs labeled as three-way on three-way sockets.

Don’t dim a non-dimmable. Only use bulbs labeled as dimmable on dimmer switches.

Check your controls. Most photocells, motion sensors and electric timers are not designed to work with CFLs. Always check with the manufacturer of the control for compatibility.

Give them air. CFLs are sensitive to extreme temperatures, so place your CFLs in open fixtures indoors. Using them in enclosed fixtures indoors can create a hot environment that reduces the lifetime of your bulbs. Note that covered reflectors are best used in recessed cans.

Protect them outside. Protect bulbs from the elements by placing them inside enclosed fixtures outdoors. For colder climates, look at the packaging for optimal operating temperatures.

Westchester Fall Home Show: Part 1

2009-10-14T13:20:00.000-07:00

BrightHome Energy Solutions attended the Westchester Fall Home Show at Pace University October 9 & 10.

Our sales team enjoyed meeting with hundreds of Westchester residents, and hearing what their biggest home energy issues were this Fall. Across the board, the #1 problem we heard from home owners was cold and drafty rooms.

The solution? Air-sealing and insulation. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that homeowners can typically save up to 20% of heating and cooling costs (or up to 10% of total energy costs) by air sealing their homes and adding insulation in attics, floors over crawl spaces, and accessible basement rim joists.

We're also proud to have secured 46 solid leads on Comprehensive Energy Assessments. We hope we can make 46 homes more comfortable and more energy efficient before Winter sweeps in.

N.Y. Governor Announces Establishment Of New York Energy Policy Institute

2009-10-08T13:31:00.000-07:00

Gov. David A. Paterson, D-N.Y., has announced the creation of the New York Energy Policy Institute (NYEPI). The group will coordinate the work of New York's leading energy research centers, using established expertise in the field to provide a resource for the state's energy policy-makers. To facilitate this coordination, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has released a request for proposals to establish the policy institute.

"New York already has some of the brightest minds in the world and extensive academic expertise in the clean energy economy," says Paterson. "For the first time, they will work together to provide analysis and strategies to inform state policy-makers, and the beneficiaries will be the everyday New Yorkers who will get cheaper and cleaner energy."

Funding of up to $200,000 per year for up to three years has been allocated to this effort. Initially, NYEPI will concentrate on strategies that will introduce more energy efficiency and further reduce energy-derived pollution, while also providing for economic development and increased employment.

Electric power generation, transmission and heating fuel-use are expected to be core issues, and then, further efforts will work toward new and efficient transportation use within the state.

NYSERDA commissioned a preliminary study to catalog the state's academic resources. It found 18 top research centers with more than 170 faculty members whose knowledge of the state's resources and needs, along with research expertise, could provide a strategic framework for future policy on energy recovery, generation, regulation and use.

source: New York Public Service Commision

NY To Take Part In Energy-Efficiency Program

2009-10-02T09:09:00.000-07:00

Those who took advantage of the cash-for-clunkers program might want to get ready for a similar project pertaining to energy-efficient home appliances.

A $300 million federal program will provide rebates to consumers who purchase Energy Star appliances, but, this time they can leave their old clunkers at home.

Not only does the program seek to help the environment by promoting efficient appliances, but it is also aimed at boosting sales for appliance makers. According to Business Week, Whirlpool has seen sales drop, as has Electrolux and General Electric.

Colleen Ryan, spokesperson for the New York State Energy and Research Development Authority said New York does plan to participate in the federal program and will submit a plan to enable it to do so by Oct. 15. If the plan is accepted by the federal government, the rebate program for appliances will begin in November. New York's energy agency is eligible to receive $18.7 million for the program.

"We encourage people when they are replacing appliances they do look at the Energy Star brand," she said, adding the brand will save energy. "It's important people realize they should recycle old appliances," she said, adding doing so gets inefficient appliances off the market.

- excerpt from The Post-Journal

President Obama Encourages Energy Efficiency, Green Jobs

2009-09-22T09:28:00.000-07:00

President Barack Obama on the "Late Show with David Letterman" in New York, Monday, September 21, 2009. Official White House Photo by Pete Souza.

During President Obama's Late Show appearance, he suggested that he might look to jump-start job creation by retrofitting old buildings to make them more energy efficient. "Doing that one thing could put hundreds of thousands of people back to work," he said.

While visiting Hudson Valley Community College earlier in the day, Obama said training at schools like Hudson Valley will allow American workers to repair the nation's infrastructure, retrofit homes and buildings with solar panels and build an environmentally friendly energy grid.

Click here to learn how you can make your home more energy efficient, more comfortable and healthy.

Panosonic's LED Lightbulb

2009-09-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

Is $40 too much for a lightbulb?

How often do you change lightbulbs? Every few months, maybe? Well, when Panasonic's new LED bulbs hit shelves, change that time frame from months to decades.

Yes, these insanely efficient bulbs keep shining and shining, providing the brightness of a traditional 60-watt bulb. Of course, they won't be cheap, with pricing set at about $40 a bulb in Japan when they hit stores in October. But seeing as they cost a mere $2 to run per year in energy costs and last 19 years, that seems like a good deal in the long run. - dvice.com

BrightHome Honda Fit

2009-09-15T13:00:00.000-07:00

BrightHome has added several Honda Fits to its fleet and we love 'em!

If you see one of these cars in your neighborhood, you know your neighbor is about to save money, reduce home energy use and make their home more comfortable.

The Fit placed first in a Car and Driver comparison of seven Economy cars and Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com named the 2009 Fit one of its 2009 Top 10 Green Cars.

Senate Passes Green Jobs/ Green NY Initiative

2009-09-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

Now is the time to make your home a BrightHome. We're thrilled about the actions New York State and NYSERDA is taking to be more energy conscious.

In a major step toward rebuilding New York’s crippled economy and rescuing the state’s energy consumers, the State Senate today passed, by a vote of 52-8, the Green Jobs/Green NY Act of 2009 (S5888).

This landmark legislation will create 14,000 family-sustaining jobs with the goal of retrofitting one million homes, businesses, and not for profits in the next five years, reducing carbon emissions caused by outmoded construction, and saving New Yorkers upwards of $1 billion annually in energy savings.

How it Works:

· The program will be funded with revenue raised by the auction of carbon emission credits through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. This funding will be used to leverage private and federal investments. The bill allocates $112 million from these auctions to NYSERDA. Auctions of carbon emission credits over the last two years raised $126 million, with an estimated $75 million more expected in the next two auctions this year alone.

· NYSERDA will establish a revolving loan program to provide up to $13,000 per residential customer to retrofit a home, and up to $26,000 to retrofit each qualifying business, and also conduct energy audits, program administration and a credit enhancement for critical private sector capital investments.

· In partnership with the Department of Labor, NYSERDA will also create workforce training programs throughout the state to ensure that the state’s workforce is highly trained and in place to handle mass-scale retrofitting.

We've Hired 3 New Energy Savings Consultants!

2009-09-04T13:15:00.000-07:00

Meet Tom, Jay & Mike -- Say hello if you see them around town...

Tom Brown is the lead auditor and is certified by the Building Performance Institute as a Building Analyst and a Building Envelope Specialist. Tom has more than five years experience in home construction and remodeling and has performed hundreds of comprehensive home energy assessments in New York area homes. Tom is passionate in making your homes energy efficient and more comfortable while saving his customers money.

Jay Latella serves as the heating and cooling specialist and has over 24 years experience in commercial and residential HVAC sales and service. Jay is HVAC certified by the Building Performance Institute as a Building Analyst and also as a Building Envelope Specialist. He has also completed his BPI Heating Specialist training and testing and is awaiting his final certification. With Jay’s “house as a system” perspective, he has a unique ability to recommend the proper heating and cooling system to make you more comfortable and your home energy efficient.

Mike Waldron is our construction project manager and has more than 28 years of home remodeling and new home construction experience. Mike is the lead auditor and is certified by the Building Performance Institute as a Building Analyst and a Building Envelope Specialist. He is committed to delivering superior customer service and a fair price.

Tax Credits & Cash Incentives

2009-08-25T14:08:00.000-07:00

Right now is the perfect time to take advantage of federal tax credits and state cash-back offers!

The Federal Stimulus Tax Credit is offering credits for energy-efficient home improvements made from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010 (through 2016 for renewable energy sources).
New York State Energy Research Development Authority (NYSERDA) is offering up to $6,500 for energy-efficicent home improvements.

For more information, click here.