Industry News
Better Buildings for Michigan - Three Rivers
The City of Three Rivers, the St. Joseph County Economic Development Corporation and Building Science Energy Services are teaming up to bring the Better Buildings for Michigan program to Three Rivers (www.trsaves.com).
When Does the Program Take Place and Where?
The first neighborhood(s) to receive these services will be the entire city limits of Three Rivers. The Three Rivers program is called: “POWER DOWN IN RIVER TOWN – SAVING MONEY . . . SAVING ENERGY.” The second neighborhood will be in Sturgis starting Spring/Summer of 2012.
What the Program Includes
Participating homes will receive a Home Energy Check-up, a variety of energy saving improvements such as a programmable thermostat, up to ten CFL light bulbs, a low-flow showerhead, two faucet aerators and 5 to 6 feet of pipe wrap. These improvements will start helping you save money right away! The home-owner will also receive information on local and regional rebates and limited time incentives. Michigan Saves is offering Three Rivers’ residents a “zero percent APR" unsecured loan to complete energy-related home improvements* (ex: insulation, air sealing, windows, heating & cooling system etc).There is also additional rebates based on the amount of energy saved with your improvements.
Cash for Caulkers – The Definitive Guide To The Home Star Energy Retrofit Act of 2010
“Cash for Caulkers” is nearly here. Last month the House of Representatives passed H.R. 5019 – also known as the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act of 2010 or “Cash for Caulkers” – to kick-start construction, create jobs and cut back carbon emissions. While the bill still needs to clear the Senate, supporters predict it will pass this summer.
Cash for Caulkers Program Information
By a vote of 246 to 161, it passed the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act, backed by President Obama and industry groups including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Association of Manufacturers and the National Association of Home Builders. The Senate has not yet voted on the two year program, which should give repayments for adding insulation, sealing ducts and installing efficient water heaters, heating units and windows.