Newton’s energy transition

by | Oct 5, 2015 | Newton | 6 comments

Big changes are happening in clean energy, and Newton is no exception.  Here are a two key initiatives happening in town:

  • Newton Solar Challenge: The Newton Solar Challenge will run through Fall 2015.  You can learn more about this program at the Newton/Needham Chamber of Commerce Green Solutions Expo on Oct. 18 in Newton Centre.  Here’s coverage in the Newton Tab. There will also be a tiny solar powered house there.
            Another opportunity to learn more: Solar Open House – Newton Solar Challenge
     Saturday, October 10th
    1:00 – 4:00pm
    87 Thurston Rd.
    Newton Upper Falls
     Come and see how solar looks, works, saves money for Newton homeowners.  Speak with solar installation, engineering and energy experts.
  • Newton Energy Savers: The City of Newton is partnering with Green Newton and Next Step Living to offer a free home energy efficiency assessment.  Energy Saver Guinea Pig and Newton Tab editor Andy Levin writes about this effort here.  The goal is to reach Newton’s goal of a 20% reduction in energy consumption by 2020.  In my house we had this done by partner Next Step Living a few years ago. I can attest there was no hard sell (in fact, I was kind of disappointed we were already too well insulated).  Moreover, I hear there will be on-the-spot upgrades like free LED lightbulbs.

6 Comments

  1. Bryan Barash
    Bryan Barash on October 5, 2015 at 12:04 pm

    I highly recommend you have your home checked for both if you can! I’m hoping we can get community shard solar going in Newton as well.

  2. Nathan Phillips
    Nathan Phillips on October 5, 2015 at 12:10 pm

    Bryan, thank you for this excellent idea and for being at the table with Green Newton and the City to promote the Newton Energy Savers initiative!

  3. Randy
    Randy on October 5, 2015 at 2:48 pm

    I had my house done. It was quick and easy. Contrary to popular belief, some of the most effective measures to reduce energy have little to no cost. They may make recommendations for projects that are costly, but many of their suggestions are very simple. I’m surprised at how many people haven’t taken advantage of these audits.

    Imagine an Auto Shop that said “Stop in! We can improve your MPG by 10-20% for little to no investment! While you’re at it we’ll install new headlights for free!” People would be lined up for miles. This is the same thing folks. Don’t miss out.

  4. Janet
    Janet on October 5, 2015 at 3:26 pm

    Is it only in Newton where taxpayers pay more money to go “Green” for energy? Two questions… (1) ) Why was this never properly vetted and (2) what are we currently spending for energy now that the contract is over? Did anyone see an RFP on the City’s website for a new energy contract when the 3-year 2012 contract expired?