Clean Energy Works in Portland, Oregon, has become so good at enticing homeowners to complete energy efficiency evaluations and upgrades that some contractors are politely asking for the projects to slow down a bit. Clean Energy Works hit the ground running by launching its program with significant rebate offers to residents. However, the rebates were so successful in driving demand for the program that contractors began to get overwhelmed. Although initially surprised by the demand for energy evaluations and upgrades, contractors in Oregon have been able to handle the extra work by adjusting schedules and bringing on additional staff.
Meanwhile, in Boulder, Colorado, the EnergySmart Program was one step ahead of the dropping temperatures, beginning awareness efforts earlier in the year to remind home and business owners to consider upgrades before the seasons changed. This community awareness helped generate energy upgrade jobs during the normally light workload days of summer, allowing contractors to sustain full workloads throughout the year. This fall, the calls have continued rolling in to contractors from chilly residents seeking relief from drafts.
Learn more about how Better Buildings partners and other residential energy efficiency programs are finding innovative ways to create jobs for their local workforce.