July 15, 2010

One of the most efficient and economical means of energy conservation and lowering utility bills is weatherization. Properly protecting a home and its interior from the elements can reduce energy consumption and optimize energy efficiency year round.

Leon County hosted a kickoff event for its new weatherization initiative, the Leon Energy Assistance Program (LEAP), Wednesday morning to introduce a program that will enable property owners to finance energy efficiency improvements.

"This is a win-win-win," said Leon County At-Large Commissioner Cliff Thaell, the driving force behind the creation of LEAP. "Participants save on their utility bills and gain a more comfortable living space; economic stimulus will occur by putting members of the construction trade back to work; and the County is promoting the reduction of greenhouse gases - all helping to create a more sustainable community."

The LEAP initiative, inspired by a growing national trend, will be the first of its kind in Florida and will occur in two phases: a pilot program, which will provide up to 100 free home energy audits, followed by the potential for a fully implemented program.

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Source: ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability USA