Town eyes incentives for renewable energy sources

Officials are looking to determine what type of incentives can be adopted in getting the town and its residents to completely move off energy sources that are based on use of fossil fuel.

The efforts are part of a recently adopted town Action Plan for 100 Percent Renewable Energy.

“The goal is to encourage and try to incentive people,” Supervisor Richard Parete said.

Among efforts will be revising local regulations that make it easier to get permits if there is renewable energy involved.

“If somebody says they’re going to use a heat pump instead of a furnace we may look to give them a discount on their building permit,” Parete said.

The plan includes statistics on how many residential and commercial structures are still using fossil fuel sources for energy.

It also notes that town officials have already made efforts to update municipal policy when making decisions about purchases.

“We did pass a resolution about a year ago

that before we do any purchases, like for vehicles or equipment, we do look to see if there is a comparable product that does use renewable energy,” Parete said.

The plan was written by town Environmental Conservation Commission members, who note the plan seeks voluntary cooperation from the community to achieve goals but planning policies will also be needed.

“Since participation is strictly voluntary for households, businesses and institutions the town must create a compelling mix of incentives and supports to

promote participation,” they wrote.

“New local policies may be needed in some areas,” commission members wrote. “Fortunately the town has already demonstrated its commitment to working closely with citizens to formulate new environmental policies that have strong public support.”

Commission Chairman Tom Konrad said there will be public meetings scheduled to discuss the plan and work with members of the community that would like to find energy efficient ways to reduce costs.

“I think we’re...(trying) to convince people that the steps we’ve outlined are cost effective, are in their self own interest, and financially achievable,” he said.