CIBOT Co-Sponsors “Save Money and the Environment” Forum

Paul Kerzner, manager, public affairs at Con Edison, speaks to participants at HPD’s “Save Money and the Environment” Forum"

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

The NYC Dept. of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD), in partnership with Astella Development Corp., the Coney Island Board of Trade, Urban Neighborhood Services, Con Edison, and Community Board 13 presented “Save Money and the Environment” forum at Coney Island Hospital’s auditorium on December 6, 2011. Forum panelists provided an opportunity for homeowners to obtain information about sanitation issues, energy conservation, solar panels, and the selection of an Energy Service Company. Panelists included: Jason Chen, NYC Dept. of Sanitation; Gene Gohman, NYC Dept. of Health; Sharon Griffith, NYSERDA; and Paul Kerzner, Con Edison. Charlisa Lanzot, HPD, moderated the forum. Jason Chen, community associate at the NYC Dept. of Sanitation, spoke about trash pickup at residential locations. He noted that anyone removing trash placed by a homeowner on the sidewalk for pickup is considered theft, penalized with a $2,000 fine. If the individual committing the crime is caught in the act, Chen recommended calling 311, and if the culprit places the items in a vehicle, he suggests getting the license plate number. Sharon Griffith, project manager of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), informed participants about NYSERDA’s: • free home-performance energy audits through approved contractors. • low interest loans to fund homeimprovements. • cash incentives for the installation of roof solar panels by eligible installers. For more information and to schedule your home energy survey, call 1-800-430-9505. Paul Kerzner, manager, public affairs at Con Edison, spoke about home energy conservation. He offered these helpful hints: • When you press the “off ” button on your computer, DVD box, or TV, it’s not really off; it’s still emitting what’s known as “phantom energy.” To truly save money on energy, you need to pull the cord out of the outlet. • It’s advisable to dispose of your air conditioner after 11 years, when it’s no longer energy efficient. Ductless air conditioners are 55% more efficient, and Con Edison gives a $300 rebate per ductless unit (with a one-time installation cost). • Con Edison is the sole energy distributor in New York City, but also provides the energy to its customers. Every homeowner and business owner, however, has the option of selecting an Energy Service Company (ESCO), whether it be Con Edison or another company. For a list of ESCOs, visit: www.poweryourway.com. For more information on saving money by“going green,” visit: www.nycgreenhouse.org.