Stillwater library checks out energy conservation

STILLWATER — For Stillwater Public Library, saving energy means saving books.

In February, Energy Smart conducted an on-site consultation at the library as part of its Stillwater Community Focus initiative. The library already had made several energy efficiency improvements during a 2006 complete renovation, but Energy Smart still found several things the library could do to save energy. After looking at the library’s equipment and operations, Energy Smart presented the library a report with its top energy-saving opportunities, ranging from no- and low-cost conservation measures to replacing equipment with high-efficiency models.

Since then, the library has implemented several of the low-cost recommendations, including turning off an ice machine in its event facility during slow winter months and purchasing about 30 low-flow aerators for all of its faucets. Both measures together could save the library about $600 a year in energy use.

The library also hopes to remove two of its vending machines, which typically cost more than $200 annually each to operate.

Library Director Lynne Bertalmio said she appreciated the practical advice Energy Smart provided in its consultation as well as suggesting many low-cost ways the library could save energy, including simple steps like unplugging the ice machine. “Believe me, if it’s energy going out the window or books, we want to make sure the money goes to books,” she said.

Interested in learning about low-flow aerators for your facility or getting a discount? Contact Energy Smart at (651) 292-4652.

New solar thermal rebates available to small business

Small businesses in Minnesota may now qualify for rebates if they are planning to install solar thermal water- or space-heating systems.

The state’s Office of Energy Security recently introduced a program offering businesses 25-percent rebates, up to $25,000 maximum, toward the cost of installing solar thermal rebates. The rebates are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and only available to businesses with 20 or fewer full-time equivalent employees. The program will end once the $500,000 in allotted funding is exhausted.

Find out more and get the application here.

Architectural Sales expects quick payback from T-8 lighting upgrade, LED exit signs

NEW HOPE — Architectural Sales of Minnesota, a commercial interior design and construction firm, recently swapped all of the T-12 fluorescent bulbs in its 13,000-square-foot facility with T-8s and replaced incandescent exit signs with LED signs. The upgrade cost the company about $5,000, and it is expected to save $2,845 annually on electric bills.

The upgrade was completed after Energy Smart conducted an on-site consultation and lined up a free lighting audit through the Center for Energy and Environment’s One Stop Efficiency Shop program.

Carl Hendrickson, purchasing manager, said not only do the new lights save the company money, but they’re better quality and make for a more pleasant work environment for employees.

If you’re interested in arranging a no-cost lighting audit or energy efficiency consultation, call Energy Smart at (651) 292-4652 or email us at info@mnenergysmart.com.

For more news about Energy Smart and the success of Minnesota businesses, visit our news coverage page.