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Communities
Community Energy Management
Benchmark
1. Track Energy Usage - The first step is to know how much energy you are using, day to day, month to month, year to year. One way to do this is to set up a free account with ENERGYSTAR Portfolio Manager.
- Gather and review your utility bills for the last twelve months.
- Benchmark your building(s) with Energy Star Portfolio Manager
Energy Audit
2. Conduct an Energy Audit - An energy audit is an assessment of your building(s) and looks at current energy consumption.
- Utilities may offer free energy assessments, contact you utility provider to find out more
- A Guide to Energy Audits
- The Difference Between ASHRAE Level 1, 2, & 3 Energy Audits
Energy Efficiency
3. Implement Energy Efficiency Upgrades - Energy efficient upgrades are the quickest way to decrease your energy use and electric bill.
- Energy Efficiency Upgrades - Lighting and Weather Sealing, Energy Star Products, Insulation and Ventilation, Water Heating System, Heating and Cooling Systems, Energy Efficient Windows
- Utility Energy Efficiency Rebates
Renewable Energy
4. Transition to Renewable Energy - Once your home/building is as efficient as possible, the next step it to pursue renewable energy.
- Solar energy
- Geothermal energy
- Wind energy
- Biomass
- Hydropower
Planning & Zoning Guidance
Zoning for Renewable Energy Database
In a unique project, EGLE and University of Michigan's Graham Sustainability Institute have developed the Michigan Zoning Database, a searchable source of information of municipal ordinances.
Solar Resources
Guidance on incorporating renewable energy in to community plans and ordinances for solar energy.
Wind Resources
Guidance on incorporating renewable energy in to community plans and ordinances for wind energy.
Additional Information and Resources:
Funding Opportunity - Community Energy Management (CEM) Grant Program