02-18-2009 ECC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Commissioner Berreman questioned whether they just worked on lights or whether there were other areas of savings as well. Mr. Steffes stated that other areas were addressed as well. He discussed issues including energy recovery ventilation systems and occupancy sensors. Following the presentation, those present from Energy Cost Cutters left the meeting. Commissioner Griffiths entered at 2:10 p.m. A comment was made that the presentation was too long and was very "commercial". Much of Mr. Steffen's presentation was likely too in-depth for most commissioners and staff members. 4. Elections of Officers Mayor Klinzing nominated Chair Zehringer to remain in the Chair position. Chair Zehringer stated that one more year would likely work. Commissioner Chuba seconded the nomination. No other nominations were brought forth. Nominations for Chair were closed. Mayor Klinzing nominated Commissioner Setala to remain as Vice Chair. Commissioner Berreman seconded the nomination. No other nominations for Vice Chair were brought forth. Nominations were closed. Voting for both positions at once resulted in both Chair Zehringer and Commissioner Setala being carried forth as Chair and Vice Chair for 2009. 5. "Protect Conserve" Update Before discussion of Project Conserve, Chair Zehringer stated that the compact fluourescent lamps (CFCs) given out at the Energy Expo are high power factor, low mercury lamps. He had to special order these lamps. CFCs sold at area stores are typically higher mercury, lower power than those given away at the Expo. Low power factor CFCs are becoming a concern for electric utilities. An article on Project Conserve was in the Star News, giving good coverage and looking great. The paper has agreed to do weekly tips on conservation. Mayor Klinzing questioned whether the Commission recommends audit firms for people in Project Conserve or the public. Chair Zehringer stated that there are at least five other firms which do energy audits like Energy Cost Cutters and there is no way that one is supported over any others. He added that ERMU and other utilities also do energy audits for residents and walk-through energy assessments for commercial customers as well. Commissioner Berreman added a caution regarding energy audit firms. Environmental Administrator Haug suggested giving the tip to the Star News to add as a tip. The next Project Conserve meetings are scheduled for February 26 and 28. The group is still very energized. Joni Astrup is following the Harvey family and it might be interesting to have one of the Harvey children do a presentation. Environmental Administrator Haug and Chair Zehringer attended the CERT (Clean Energy Resource Team) conference in St. Cloud, MN as speakers regarding Project Conserve. The CERT committee would like to highlight the ECC and Project Conserve in April. 2