Energy Audits Lead to Member-Owner Savings
April 1, 2010
With 26 cooperative employees representing 15 systems having completed the PHII Energy Auditor Training program, end consumers are being given practical examples of how to become more energy efficient.
According to Brian Jeremiason, Energy Services Manager for Lyon-Lincoln Electric and Renville-Sibley Co-op Power Association, the response from members has been revealing. “Each home is different, so what we find at each location is also different. Some members know the problems and are just looking for verification, others know there is an issue, but don’t know how to identify it. Others don’t really have a problem, but they’re curious to see what information we can provide.”
Completing the instruction involves 30-40 hours of ‘take at your own pace’ online coursework before traveling to Madison, SD for the full day lab training. The online coursework teaches participants how to use the equipment and tools, covers energy efficiency remedies and provides an overview of building materials. The on-site lab consists of conducting an actual energy audit which includes instruction with a blower door and infra-red camera. Students in the program will also learn how to fill out necessary forms and learn how to enter findings into an energy audit database.
Saving money for the end consumer is the prevailing theme for the training, affirms Robb Graham, president of Professional Training Service, the company which facilitates the curriculum. “The training assures that all auditors are following a similar process, but can tailor their audit and add on other services as well. It also provides for a more comprehensive response to customers calling with high bills,” he said. “It also promotes energy efficiency and reduces the need for new power plants, which is a cost saving measure for the co-ops.”
Tim Schoolmeester, Key Accounts/Marketing Specialist for Sioux Valley Energy, sees two different groups of people who are requesting the audits. “We have one group who wants to save money on their utility bill and a second group who wants to be environmentally conscious. Regardless of their motive, both groups find a benefit in the energy audit process.”
