Did you know that the first Wednesday in October is Energy Efficiency Day? More importantly, did you know that the new Inflation Reduction Act has many tax incentives for energy efficiency improvements starting in 2023? 

Learning how to be more energy efficient can save you a lot of money, make your home or business more comfortable and safer, reduce our collective negative impact on the environment, and help us reach our county and statewide climate goals for the future. Having an assessment done now can set you up for implementing 2023 efficiency upgrades that qualify for tax credits and other Inflation Reduction Act-related incentives.

Through our relationships with Energy Smart Colorado, Yampa Valley Electric Association, the City of Steamboat Springs, and the Town of Oak Creek, Yampa Valley Sustainability Council supports comprehensive energy assessments, a home analysis that addresses comfort concerns; includes blower-door testing with infrared camera imaging to detect insulation voids and air leaks; and Combustion Appliance Zone testing to identify potential carbon monoxide and other hazards related to combustion heating systems. With the support of Energy Smart Colorado’s tools and network, YVSC’s energy analysts can help Yampa Valley residents and business owners find the right equipment upgrades and apply for rebates that will ultimately reduce their energy bills.

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A certified building analyst will walk through your home or business and help you understand the best energy-saving devices while providing coaching along the way on best energy saving practices.

Now is the time to act. Current funding is only available through December. Request your home energy assessment and find out how to improve your home to make it more comfortable, energy efficient, safe to live in, less expensive to operate and less impactful on the environment.

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Energy assessments cost $250 for Steamboat Springs residents ($100 for Oak Creek residents) at the time of the audit. YVEA customers are eligible for a $150 electric bill credit after the audit is completed. Plus, if you complete at least $200 of recommended energy improvements, you are eligible for a $100 YVSC rebate, ultimately making the energy assessment free.

Note, residents outside of Steamboat Springs and Oak Creek pay $350 for an assessment. 

YVSC also has an income-qualified program that can provide a free assessment and home improvements through Colorado’s Affordable Residential Energy Program.

To schedule your energy assessment, visit YVSC.org/Energy-Assessments/.

Paul Bony is Yampa Valley Sustainability Council’s energy and transportation director.