Summary:

In this conversation, Beth Holaday, Senior Sales Manager at Verde Energy Efficiency Experts, joined the Pod to explore the intersection of sustainability and business. She shares the journey that she takes building owners and facility managers on when starting their energy efficiency journey, starting with the lowest-hanging fruit—LED lighting and controls—that often have the quickest payback period, before moving on to larger investments. Beth also dives into how advanced rooftop controls can enhance HVAC efficiency and extend the life of your equipment.

This episode demystifies energy efficiency strategies and explains how to leverage incentives and advanced controls for smarter building management.

Key Takeaways:

• Beth's background in environmental science shapes her approach to energy efficiency.

• Measuring energy usage is crucial for identifying improvement areas.

• LED lighting offers immediate financial and environmental benefits.

• Payback periods for energy efficiency projects should ideally be under three years.

• Quality of LED products can significantly impact long-term savings.

• Advanced rooftop controls can enhance HVAC efficiency and extend equipment life.

• Secondary windows provide a cost-effective solution for older buildings.

• Heat pumps represent a significant advancement in energy efficiency technology.

• Building owners need to be open to change for effective energy management.

• Understanding the financial incentives available can drive energy efficiency upgrades.

Learn more about Verde Energy Efficiency Experts here. Check out the ComEd Business Energy Analyzer here. Reach out to Beth Holaday via email: beth@verde.expert

Summary:

In this conversation, Wayne Beals, a seasoned realtor and sustainability advocate, shares his insights on the intersection of real estate and green building. He discusses his journey into the world of sustainable buildings, the critical role realtors play in educating clients about high-performance homes, and the importance of policy advocacy in advancing green building practices. Wayne emphasizes the need for trust in realtor-client relationships and the emotional aspects of transitioning to all-electric homes. He also addresses the social justice dimensions of green building and offers advice for professionals looking to engage in sustainability efforts.

Key Takeaways:

• Wayne Beals is a dedicated advocate for sustainability in real estate.

• Realtors can significantly influence the market by educating clients on green building.

• Trust is essential in realtor-client relationships, especially for significant purchases.

• All electric homes offer numerous benefits, including better air quality and lower utility bills.

• Induction cooking is a superior alternative to gas stoves, despite consumer misconceptions.

• Housing abundance is crucial for addressing affordability and quality in neighborhoods.

• Policy advocacy is necessary to drive change in the building industry.

• Realtors should align their business strategies with sustainability values.

• Investing in local communities can lead to better housing outcomes.

• Networking and volunteering are key for professionals looking to engage in sustainability.

Summary:

In this conversation, Bob Hattier, the Director of Renewable Energy for IBEW Local 134, discusses the evolving landscape of renewable energy and workforce development. He highlights the importance of attracting young talent to the industry, the impact of legislation on training programs, and the challenges and opportunities presented by energy storage and electrification. Bob emphasizes the need for a skilled workforce to meet the demands of a transitioning energy sector and the collaborative efforts required to engage stakeholders in this process. He also shares insights on upcoming developments in training curriculum and local policies that support the growth of renewable energy in Illinois.

Key Takeaways:

• IBEW Local 134 has thousands of applicants annually for renewable energy programs.

• Recruitment efforts target diverse populations through community organizations and schools.

• Solar energy training has shifted from elective to core curriculum due to policy changes.

• The Future Energy Jobs Act has significantly impacted workforce training in Illinois.

• CEJA has provided lessons for future energy legislation and workforce development.

• Energy storage is crucial for grid reliability and presents new training opportunities.

• Local policies create readiness for electrification and renewable energy.

• Stakeholder engagement is essential for successful energy transition.

• The Aurora Stretch Code aims to enhance energy efficiency and electrification.

• IBEW is committed to expanding opportunities in the renewable energy sector.

Summary

In this conversation, Delmar Gillus, COO of Elevate, discusses the importance of equity in clean energy initiatives, particularly in underserved communities. He emphasizes the role of workforce development in creating job opportunities and the importance of community engagement in building partnerships. Delmar also highlights the impact of recent legislation, such as the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) and the Clean and Reliable Grid Act (CRGA), on advancing clean energy goals in Illinois. Looking ahead, he shares Elevate's focus on energy affordability and community resources to address energy burdens.

Clean and Reliable Grid Act Explainer: https://www.illinoisgreenalliance.org/illinois-just-passed-the-clean-and-reliable-grid-act-heres-what-the-building-industry-needs-to-know

Key Takeaways

• Elevate focuses on ensuring access to clean energy for all communities.

• Community engagement is crucial for identifying local needs.

• Workforce development is key to creating job opportunities in clean energy.

• Legislation like CEJA aims to ensure diverse communities benefit from clean energy investments.

• Partnerships with local organizations enhance project effectiveness.

• Equity must be at the forefront of clean energy initiatives.

• Training programs should provide holistic support for participants.

• Community voices should lead discussions on energy projects.

• Sustainable practices are essential in developing new energy infrastructure.

• Future Elevate initiatives will focus on energy affordability and accessibility.

Summary

In this episode of the Building Energy Pod, host Matt welcomes Benny Skelton, founder of Cyclone Energy Group, to discuss the business case and ROI for energy efficiency improvements and sustainable retrofits across various sectors. They explore the challenges and opportunities in commercial, educational, and other types of buildings, highlighting the importance of strategic planning and innovative technologies like heat pumps and retro commissioning. Benny shares insights on funding mechanisms, the role of incentives, and the impact of long-term planning on building sustainability.

Key Takeaways:

• ROI for energy efficiency varies by sector and is influenced by market factors.

• Commercial office retrofits often have a 3-5 year payback period.

• Healthcare buildings benefit from energy efficiency due to constant operation.

• Educational institutions can plan for longer payback periods due to property retention.

• Retro commissioning and monitoring-based commissioning are key for operational efficiency.

• Heat pump technology is advancing, offering more sustainable heating solutions.

• Funding for retrofits can come from incentives, rebates, and creative financing.

• Long-term planning is crucial for decarbonization and building resilience.

• Cyclone Energy Group's projects demonstrate significant energy savings and sustainability.

• The Innovation Rodeo showcases new ideas and technologies in building performance.

Keywords

heating technology, air source heat pump, ground source heat, electric water heating, fossil fuels, development, retrofits, permitting process

Summary

In this episode, AJ Patton, founder and CEO of 548 Enterprise, discusses his journey in creating sustainable housing solutions and the importance of integrating clean energy into real estate. He shares insights on workforce development, the challenges of achieving high-performance energy efficiency, and the need for collaboration between developers and local governments. AJ emphasizes the significance of community engagement and the role of education in fostering a sustainable future.

You can learn more about A.J. and his work, as well as the 2025 Emerald Award honorees here: https://www.illinoisgreenalliance.org/20th-annual-illinois-emerald-awards-for-green-building-announced

Key Takeaways:

• AJ Patton's journey began with a personal experience of high utility costs.

• 548 Enterprise aims to lower utility bills for working families.

• Sustainability in development starts with the developer's commitment.

• High-performance energy efficiency is achievable with the right mindset.

• The Humboldt Park project aims to include diverse engineering teams.

• Workforce development is crucial for community-scale decarbonization.

• Transparency and data sharing can enhance collaboration in projects.

• Streamlining administrative processes can accelerate development.

• There are significant opportunities in converting office spaces to residential.

• Intentionality in sustainability can lead to broader community engagement.

Summary

In this episode of the Building Energy Pod, host Matt Watson speaks with Joe Clair, Commercial Vice President at Windfree Solar Co., about his journey in building sustainability, the challenges of retrofitting existing buildings, and the importance of stakeholder engagement. They discuss the significance of identifying low-hanging fruit in energy efficiency, navigating historic buildings, and the role of solar energy in achieving net zero certification. Joe also shares insights on funding opportunities and incentives available for solar projects in Illinois.

Takeaways

• Joe Clair's career journey highlights the importance of mentorship in sustainability.
• Sustainable retrofits are crucial for existing buildings to achieve decarbonization.
• Long-term planning is essential for effective building upgrades.
• Engaging stakeholders can lead to innovative solutions in sustainability.
• Identifying low-hanging fruit can yield immediate energy savings.
• Historic buildings present unique challenges for sustainability efforts.
• Resilience in building design is critical for long-term performance.
• Solar energy is a key component in achieving net zero certification.
• Funding opportunities in Illinois support solar project development.
• Collaboration and communication are vital in the planning process.

Summary

In this episode, Chris Meister, executive director of the Illinois Finance Authority and Climate Bank, discusses the role of the Climate Bank in supporting Illinois' green economy. He highlights the importance of state-level action in sustainability, especially in light of federal uncertainties. The conversation covers various funding mechanisms, successful case studies, and the practical steps for building professionals to access financing for energy efficiency projects. Chris emphasizes the collaborative efforts with local governments and the significance of attracting private capital to enhance community projects.

For more information on the Climate Bank, visit here.

For more information on the Small Business Credit Initiative, visit here.

Key Takeaways

• The Climate Bank plays a crucial role in financing green projects in Illinois.

• State action is essential for advancing sustainability initiatives.

• Federal incentives are currently uncertain, making local action more important.

• The Climate Bank provides lower-cost financing options for building projects.

• Successful case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the Climate Bank's funding.

• Collaboration with local governments enhances project financing opportunities.

• The financing process involves working with approved private lenders.

• Energy efficiency audits are necessary for accessing funding.

• The Climate Bank aims to attract private capital for community development.

• Engagement with organizations like the Green Alliance is encouraged.