Hosted by EC Department of Environment & Planning, Event Explores Options for Savings, Energy Efficiency

ERIE COUNTY, NY— The Erie County Department of Environment & Planning will host a free, Renew Erie County Business Energy lunch & learn workshop on November 7, 2012 from 11:30am – 1:00pm at Curly’s Grill & Banquet Center, 647 Ridge Rd., Lackawanna, NY. Commissioner Maria Whyte will deliver opening remarks; presenters at the workshop will discuss how businesses and not-for-profit organizations can take advantage of programs and funding opportunities available to help reduce energy use and associated energy costs.

“Energy conservation provides an opportunity to help the bottom line, as well as protect the environment”, said Commissioner Whyte. “This program will help businesses, non-profits, and landlords by identifying financial incentives and technical assistance opportunities.”

Commercial and not-for-profit organizations will learn about programs and incentives available for making energy-efficient improvements to their buildings. Additionally, the New York Small Business Development Center will provide information on business financing and other assistance for building owners. All local and regional small business, commercial, not-for-profit, industrial and multi-family property owners are encouraged to attend.

 The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s (“NYSERDA”) Energy Audit Program will offer free energy audits for small businesses and not-for-profits to help them identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency and recommend improvements to reduce energy costs. Green Jobs Green New York Small Business and Not-For-Profit Energy Efficiency Financing Program works with lenders statewide to provide eligible small businesses and not-for-profits access to low-interest energy efficiency project financing. Many energy improvement projects are eligible for cash-back incentives from NYSERDA, as well as from National Grid and National Fuel Gas.

Presentations will be made by the Western New York Energy $mart Communities program (an independent contractor to NYSERDA performing customer outreach), and by National Grid and National Fuel Gas regarding business rebates and incentives.

Pre-register for the free lunch & learn workshop at www.RenewerieCounty.org  or by calling 1-866-495-2959 to reserve your seat.