July 2023

Going Green to Save Green By Casey Sky Noon, CoolSys Energy Design

A s energy costs and scrutiny of emissions continue to increase, we are likely to hear the phrase, “Go green to save green,” until we turn blue. The question is whether or not solar panels, LED lighting, high-efficiency mechanical equipment, electrification, and other “green” initiatives actually keep your budget out of the red. Whether your community association changes out a single incandescent light bulb for an LED one or opts to undergo a large-scale capital improvement project, there are many state and utility-based incentives and rebates available to decrease your return on investment (ROI) time. Because it may sound too good to be true, here are examples of communities that went green and did in fact save some green.

LEDs Lighten the Electricity Load for Multiple NJ Community Associations

According to www.energy.gov, LEDs use 75% less energy to operate than incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. An easy switch with a fast return on investment, multiple community associations including Cider Mill Professional Condo Association in Livingston, Bridge Plaza Association in Manalapan, Clinton Plaza in Fairfield, Dobbins Plaza in Verona, and Powder Mill Condos in Riverdale have upgraded their common area interior and exterior lighting to LEDs using government or utility rebate programs, along with inter est-free financing from PSEG. Cedarcrest Property Management President Thomas Chilenski, CMCA reports that the average return on investment (ROI) for these communities is just two years. “Plus,” he said, “the energy savings after that will save them nearly 70% on prior energy costs.” Solar Brightened The Ponds’ Budget

The Ponds is a 55+ community with 577 homes in Monroe, Township, NJ. From July 2015 to July 2016, the association’s electricity bill ranged from $3,200 to $7,200, with an average cost of $4,800. It was paying $120k per year for electricity. With those high figures in mind, the board decided to investigate solar panels to generate electricity on-site. Fast forward to 2023— The Ponds now enjoys carport coverings and a patio pergola with a photovoltaic system in its clubhouse parking lot. The solar power system includes over 500 modules, each of which can produce up to 370 watts of electricity. “It has had a huge impact on our budget,” said Board President Mark Maloney. The community is seeing annual savings of over 25%. “Plus, we get the added bonus of coverage from the sun in the summer and snow in the winter.”

BrianAJackson/iStock/Getty Images Plus

CONTINUES ON PAGE 16

14

JULY 2023