Energy advice from a professional

FALLS VILLAGE — Bob Whelan, partner and CFO of The Washington Supply Co., and partner in Home Energy Professionals, spoke on Wednesday, March 20, at the Mahoney-Hewat Science and Technology Center as part of the 21st Century Fund’s Winter Wednesdays series. Whelan’s presentation included projected photos of newly built and retrofitted “green” and “passive” homes, and samples of solar panels, special roofing and insulating materials and other energy- and water-saving devices.Whelan offered a list of effective, inexpensive ways to save energy at home, including: setting hot water heaters at 120 degrees; using LED light bulbs; employing power strips or timers to avoid using electricity on appliances not being used; programming thermostats; and air-sealing homes. Other measures cost more, but produce greater energy savings, such as adding insulation in attics and basements, and choosing appliances with Energy Star ratings. “Connecticut is one of the most progressive states in energy efficiency, air pollution reduction, and economic use of energy,” Whelan said. He noted that the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund (CEEF) gives money to businesses to make them more efficient. Whelan also told them that the Connecticut Energy Investment and Finance Authority (www.ctcleanenergy.com) gives incentives and financing to homeowners, companies, municipalities and institutions for innovations in energy efficiency and renewable energy uses.Whelan also talked about water conservation. Two water-saving initiatives that don’t cost much and save a lot of water are: rerouting to toilets the “gray water” that comes from the shower or bathroom sink, and installing low-flow shower heads.