Group promotes electricity efficiency programs
Buffalo, N.Y.-based Rebuild Niagara Frontier, a non-profit group that promotes private/public partnerships for electricity efficiency programs, was formed last year to address the energy issues of five counties in western New York. Working with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the group has helped local organizations and companies obtain funding for a variety of projects in Erie and Niagara counties, with additional plans to help Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Wyoming & Genesee counties.
In Buffalo and Erie County, the group has helped the governments, organizations and companies obtain funding for energy feasibility studies and the renovation of the county courthouse, the Buffalo/Erie County Public Library, the Division of Sewage Management’s facilities and the Rath Building, which houses county offices. In addition, the county has worked with Buffalo-based National Fuel Gas to reduce energy costs through making bulk purchases of electricity and natural gas.
Rebuild Niagara Frontier also has assisted two non-profit organizations in Erie County with applications for NYSERDA financial assistance. Thanks to the group’s efforts, The Upper West Art Center in Buffalo performed an energy feasibility study on an historic church building that is being converted into a performing arts center, and Grass Roots Middleport renovated a number of historic buildings that were ravaged by fire.
Rebuild Niagara Frontier was singled out for Energy Excellence in Local Government when Rebuild America, a program of the U.S. Department of Energy, announced its 2001 National Energy Champion Award winners in March. The awards recognize individuals and organizations that have implemented programs to improve energy efficiency in communities.
“Rebuild Niagara Frontier is taking the necessary steps to improve local government buildings, save taxpayer dollars and stimulate the local economy by investing in energy efficiency,” says Daniel Sze, Rebuild America national program manager.
For information on Rebuild America, visit www.eren.doe.gov/buildings/rebuild/.
