Blog – CORE – Community Office for Resource Efficiency

Rebuilding with Resilience: How One Colorado Couple Created an All-Electric, Solar-Powered Home After Devastating Fire

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 14:16:12 GMT

When a catastrophic fire destroyed Clint Coerdt and Kate Sartain's home in Old Snowmass, Colorado, they faced an impossible choice: leave the Roaring Fork Valley or rebuild in the shadow of devastating loss. What emerged from the ashes is a blueprint for resilient, all-electric mountain living powered almost entirely by the sun--and it could inspire your own home energy transformation.

When Community Support Changes Everything

The 2022 fire claimed not just Coerdt's family home, but his parents and beloved pets. The couple seriously considered leaving Colorado entirely. But when the community rallied--organizing fundraisers, offering housing, and providing unwavering support--Coerdt and Sartain found the strength to stay.

" This beautiful community put us back on our feet ," Coerdt said. " We wanted to rebuild on our property and make a nod to my parents and put this place back where it was and make this our home by building something new in the ashes of what we lost. "

That "something new" would become a model for sustainable mountain living.

Small Changes, Big Results

Their previous log home suffered from major comfort problems. Drafty, poorly insulated, and located in a cold-air drainage area, it struggled to maintain even temperatures. Neighbor and architect Al Beyer described it as " kind of a dog--it did not respond to the climate ."

The rebuild offered a chance to fix these issues. Working with Beyer, they made a strategic decision: move the new home slightly uphill. This small shift provided better solar exposure, avoided the cold-air pocket, and created the foundation for an all-electric, solar-powered home.

Going All-Electric: A Vision for the Future

From the beginning, the couple committed to eliminating fossil fuels completely. Their long, north-facing driveway made propane delivery risky in winter, and they wanted a home that honored the past while embracing a sustainable future. Inspired by the book Pretty Good House , they worked with a design team to integrate modern electric systems from the ground up:

Heat pumps for efficient heating and cooling

Electric radiant floor heating throughout the home

Induction cooktop for fast, efficient cooking

Heat pump water heater for hot water

9.6 kW solar array on a south-facing roof designed for maximum production

The Power of Solar + Battery Storage

The real game-changer is the 60 kWh battery storage system, made affordable through Holy Cross Energy's innovative Power+FLEX program . This program provides upfront rebates and monthly bill credits in exchange for allowing the utility to tap into stored energy during peak demand times.

Without this program, the battery system would have cost $30,000-$40,000--out of reach for most homeowners. Instead, the partnership between Holy Cross Energy and CORE made it financially viable.

The results are impressive. In the first month of operation, the solar panels produced 65.8% of the home's energy needs. Through Power+FLEX, the batteries contributed 34.2% of stored energy back to the grid--providing clean, zero-emission power to the community while earning the homeowners bill credits.

How CORE Made It Happen

The Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE) became a critical partner early in the process. Senior Energy Concierge Tim Johns reached out proactively, helping the homeowners understand available incentives and guiding equipment decisions toward full electrification.

CORE provided:

$15,000 in direct incentives for heat pumps, induction cooking, buffer tanks, and water heating
Expert technical guidance throughout the design process
Connections to Holy Cross Energy programs that made battery storage affordable
Strategic planning support to maximize long-term savings and performance

"Tim reached out and really got the ball rolling," Coerdt said. "I wish I had reached out earlier before we even started building just to get some of the ideas CORE has to offer. Tim's explanation of the grant funds was the most helpful. "

Dramatic Improvements in Comfort and Cost

The transformation is remarkable. Where the old home took hours to warm up, the new heat pump system brings the house to comfortable temperatures in just 15 minutes. No more cold spots, no waiting, no reliance on propane deliveries in dangerous winter conditions.

The financial impact is equally impressive. During construction, temporary power bills ran $700-$900 monthly. Now, the homeowners anticipate monthly bills around $100--an 85-90% reduction. Additional benefits include fire-resistant construction, superior insulation, backup power during outages, zero fossil fuel use, and dramatically lower operating costs.

Lessons for Your Home Energy Upgrade

Whether you're building new or upgrading an existing home, this project offers valuable insights:

Contact CORE early. The earlier you engage, the more opportunities you'll have to optimize your design and access incentives. CORE's experts can guide equipment selection, identify rebate programs, and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Small design changes yield big results. Simply moving the home uphill for better solar exposure transformed the project. Think about your site's orientation, drainage patterns, and sun exposure--these factors dramatically impact energy performance.

Partnerships multiply possibilities. The collaboration between CORE and Holy Cross Energy made battery storage affordable. Without these partnerships, many sustainable features would have been financially out of reach. Ask about utility programs and local incentives.

All-electric works in mountain climates. Modern heat pumps perform efficiently even in cold temperatures. Combined with good insulation and air sealing, electric systems provide superior comfort at lower cost.

Think bigger with solar. Coerdt's one regret? Not installing an even larger solar array. " If you have the chance, get a bigger solar array," he said . "I would love to have doubled the size ."

Induction cooking is a game-changer. Fast, efficient, safe, and precise--induction cooking became one of the project's standout features and is an easy entry point for electrification.

Ready to Start Your Energy Upgrade Journey?

Clint and Kate transformed tragedy into an opportunity to create a home that's safer, more comfortable, and more sustainable. Their 3,400-square-foot home produces most of its own clean energy, eliminates fossil fuels entirely, and costs a fraction of typical homes to operate.

You don't need to rebuild from scratch to achieve similar results. Whether you're planning a major renovation or taking incremental steps, CORE can help you identify rebates, evaluate technologies, connect with contractors, and navigate utility programs.

" What I really liked was how CORE and Holy Cross worked together ," Coerdt said. " The battery system was supposed to cost us between $30,000 and $40,000 which for a lot of budgets is a no go. With them working together helped make it affordable ."

Take the First Step Today

Ready to explore what's possible for your home? Visit aspencore.org to learn more about residential energy programs and incentives, or contact CORE’s energy concierge to discuss your home energy upgrade project.

Your journey to a more efficient, comfortable, and sustainable home starts with a single conversation. Together, we can create homes that are better for families, better for budgets, and better for our beautiful Colorado community.

Read the entire case study by Mitzi Rapkin

Building a Zero-Emissions Healing Center in Colorado

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 22:02:59 GMT

CORE Energy Spotlight:

Halle Center for Hope and Healing

For decades, the nonprofit Response has worked to end domestic and sexual abuse in Colorado's Roaring Fork Valley. Its staff operated from a cramped, rented office, and survivors of abuse had no secure, long-term shelter to rely on. The lack of stable housing is a critical gap, as a safe environment is essential for healing and rebuilding lives. This inspired Response to pursue a difficult but necessary dream: building a combined office and healing center. And they added another ambitious goal—the facility had to be a zero-emissions building.

This post explores the journey of creating the Halle Center for Hope and Healing . It’s a story of overcoming significant obstacles to build a sustainable healing center that serves both its clients and the planet. From navigating land use challenges to securing funding, Response's path offers powerful lessons for any organization committed to making a lasting, positive impact.

Challenges and Creative Solutions

When Response found an affordable parcel of land in Basalt , it came with a host of challenges. The property was on a 100-year floodplain, which eliminated the possibility of a basement for mechanical systems. It also had a unique triangular shape and was part of a commercial HOA with strict building height restrictions. These hurdles required innovative thinking and a dedicated team.

Designing for Sustainability in a Floodplain

The floodplain location was a major constraint. To mitigate flood risk, 50% of the building had to be constructed on piers, raising it above ground level. This meant the space typically used for mechanical rooms and venting in a basement was lost. The design team had to get creative, finding space for these essential systems within the main structure without compromising the living areas.

Balancing Privacy and Solar Gain

For a healing center serving survivors of abuse, privacy and security are paramount. However, a key element of sustainable design is passive solar gain, which requires orienting a building to maximize sun exposure. Erica Golden, principal of site-architects, explained the dilemma: "We fought hard for an increase in height...maintaining both security and effective sustainable design strategies." The final design cleverly balanced these competing needs, creating a space that feels both secure and connected to the natural environment.

Navigating Land Use and HOA Relations

The land wasn't originally zoned for a shelter, requiring Response to petition the Town of Basalt for a land use change. Success depended on community support. Response built strong relationships with neighboring businesses and HOA members, authentically communicating their vision and addressing concerns. Their efforts paid off when the HOA agreed to a height variance and the town approved the land use change, proving that partnership and transparent communication are key to overcoming regulatory hurdles.

Securing Funding for an Ambitious Vision

Building a state-of-the-art, $9.75 million facility required a massive fundraising effort. Response secured a diverse mix of funding, including a $4 million grant from the Colorado Division of Housing and significant contributions from local governments and foundations.

Grants from the Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE) were crucial, helping fund the all-electric heat pump system and energy modeling. This multi-faceted approach demonstrates the power of pursuing every available funding opportunity.

Key Features of a Sustainable Healing Center

The Halle Center for Hope and Healing integrates numerous green construction features to achieve its zero-emissions goal. These elements not only reduce the building's environmental impact but also create a healthier, more comfortable space for residents.

Solar Photovoltaic Panels: The building features a 51.41 kWh solar panel system on its uniquely designed butterfly-sloped roof. This system produces about 70% of the building's energy needs on-site.
Passive Solar Design: The building’s orientation and window placement are optimized to capture natural light and heat, reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating during the day.
All-Electric Systems: The center operates entirely on electricity, eliminating the use of fossil fuels. This includes a Mitsubishi multi-zone heat pump system for highly efficient heating and cooling, electric induction cooktops in the communal kitchen, and electric baseboard heaters.
EV Charging Stations: To support sustainable transportation, the facility includes four Level 2 EV charging stations, supported by a grant from Charge Ahead Colorado.
ADA Accessibility: The design goes beyond basic requirements to ensure the entire facility, including its two ADA-compliant residential units, is fully accessible and welcoming to all individuals.

The Power of Community and Collaboration

The success of the Halle Center was a true team effort. From the beginning, Response, site-architects, G.F. Woods Construction , and other partners shared a unified vision. Eric Wynne, project manager for G.F. Woods, noted the project's success was due to a "cohesive team and well-thought-out design." This collaborative spirit allowed the team to solve problems proactively and efficiently.

CORE played a vital role beyond just providing grants. Their staff offered technical advice on energy systems, connected the team with other resources like Holy Cross Energy, and provided guidance on strengthening grant applications. "Having the staff as a resource was just as important as the impact of the funding," said Shannon Meyer, Executive Director of Response.

A Model for a Sustainable Future

The Halle Center for Hope and Healing stands as a powerful testament to what is possible when a nonprofit commits to a bold vision. It is more than just a building; it is a safe harbor for survivors and a model for sustainable, resilient community projects. The center not only provides shelter but also generates most of its own clean energy, with the remainder purchased from Holy Cross Energy ’s renewable sources.

"I love that we are a demonstration project for other nonprofits to see you can build in a somewhat affordable manner and meet sustainability goals and not have to be a drain on the energy system," Meyer stated.

The project proves that financial constraints do not have to compromise environmental ethics. By prioritizing long-term savings and leveraging grants and tax credits, Response built a facility that is both economically and environmentally sound. This zero-emissions building shows that even on a challenging site, a strong vision can lead to a healthy, healing solution that benefits everyone.

Learn More and Get Involved

The Halle Center for Hope and Healing is a shining example of how innovative construction can support a nonprofit's mission. It demonstrates that with perseverance, teamwork, and community support, even the most ambitious dreams can become a reality.

To learn more about Response's mission and their work to support survivors, visit the Response website .
To discover how CORE supports commercial projects with grants and expert guidance, explore our programs .

Read the entire case study by Mitzi Rapkin

Energy-focused Basalt nonprofit announces new chief executive officer

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 22:59:02 GMT

The Community Office for Resource Efficiency has announced the appointment of Tara Stitzlein as the new chief executive officer.

Stitzlein takes the helm from John Dougherty, who was appointed by the board as the organization’s contracted CEO in 2023. She is “marking a significant milestone in the organization’s history and the broader climate movement,” a press release states.

“I am honored to continue serving CORE as CEO, building on the legacy that John and the previous climate leaders at CORE have shaped.” she said in the release. “The urgency of the climate crisis demands that we expand our impact while ensuring that our work remains community-rooted. I am thrilled to steward CORE’s mission and make climate action accessible for all residents throughout Pitkin, Eagle, and Garfield counties.”

Dougherty will remain with CORE for a transitional period to support Stitzlein in her new role. Her official start date in this new role in Sept. 15.

She holds a Master of Science in Biology, with a concentration in Molecular Environmental Biology from The Arctic University of Norway, where she researched the marine plastic microbiome for her thesis. She is currently pursuing a Master of Legal Studies in Environmental Law at the University of Denver.

She has also served in various leadership roles at CORE since June 2022, most recently as the director of Climate Action Programs. She has overseen operations, strategy, personnel management, and significant projects like the Coal Basin Methane Capture initiative.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tara as our new CEO,” said Tessa Schreiner, CORE’s board chair, in the release. “Her extensive experience as a leader in climate action, coupled with her impressive educational background as a scientist, makes her the perfect fit for CORE at this pivotal time. Tara’s unique blend of scientific expertise and passionate commitment to environmental sustainability aligns seamlessly with our mission. We are confident CORE can scale climate solutions to meet the increasing urgency of the climate crisis, and we believe that under her leadership, CORE will expand its impact and further engage the community.”

And Stitzlein is no stranger to the Roaring Fork Valley. Her husband, Cole Green-Smith, is a native of the area who graduated from Aspen High School and currently works as a hydrologist for the U.S. Forest Service, bringing over a decade of experience in public service. They reside in Missouri Heights with their 16-month-old daughter, June.

“This personal connection to the community further enhances Tara’s commitment to leading CORE and making a positive impact in our region,” the press release states.

Stitzlein will be at CORE’s Green Expo on Sept. 12 at the Limelight Hotel in Aspen. The community is encouraged to attend this event from 1-5 p.m., followed by a social hour from 5-6 p.m. where attendees can meet her and learn more about her vision for the future. The event is free and open to the public — registration can be completed at aspencore.org/green-expo .

CORE has pledged to address climate change “swiftly, impactfully, and courageously while enhancing its capacity to combat the climate crisis.” CORE aims to align community priorities with climate action and bridge the gap between ambitious climate goals and measurable action.

For more information about CORE and Stitzlein’s vision, visit the aspencore.org or contact the organization directly.

Smuggler Park Couple Take the Path Towards Carbon-Free Living

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 18:31:49 GMT

Smuggler Park Couple Take the Path Towards Carbon-Free Living

Originally Published: January 22, 2020
Updated: June 4, 2025

Just beyond the Downtown Core lies Smuggler Park, a fabled Aspen subdivision the HOA says is made up of “real homes for real locals.” Two of those locals, Sam and Desi Barney, are using a CORE grant to drive real change when it comes to how their home uses energy.

Sam and Desi prove that anyone can reach net-zero, or darn near it, with a little elbow grease and smart design. A net-zero building is one that produces as much energy as it uses.

The Barneys have lived at Smuggler Park in a beloved trailer for the past 15 years; one Desi described as “awesome, but not all that efficient.” They determined it was time for the upgrade they had been talking about since 2006. Where that trailer once stood is now a wood-framed home-in-progress rooted in CORE’s energy-efficiency philosophy.

The 1,200-square-foot rebuild will utilize efficient design like passive solar, in addition to all-LED lighting, ENERGY STAR® appliances, and a 3.33 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system. The smaller square footage is unique for a highly energy-efficient home in Aspen, and the Barneys are showing Roaring Fork Valley residents how it is done.

Sam utilized his years of experience in the building industry, along with help from an architecturally savvy friend, to make it all happen. The building envelope consists of super-insulated walls, high ceilings, and sunny windows that are already warm and inviting despite the incomplete space. That same envelope is so air-tight that the home will require two energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) to keep indoor air fresh and healthy.

He installed the ERVs in the crawl space to maximize interior space and efficiency - a project Sam could fortunately tackle on his own to save on project costs. “I did the radon and ventilation stuff myself, which was a lot of fun,” he said with a wink, “but it will save us a lot of money.”

Not every project will get to net-zero energy, and that is okay. The Barneys were not able to electrify all of their mechanicals due to voltage limitations. The couple instead used the most efficient gas appliances available, but only where they were necessary, like the boiler.

The result will be a home that uses barely more energy than it produces: by design, 80% less energy than an average home the same size. That means it has a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) score of 20. Think of the HERS score as a measuring stick for energy use. A score of 100 represents the baseline house from 20 years ago, and a score of zero represents a net-zero home (a home that produces as much energy as it consumes in one year). Still confused? Check this out for more info.

CORE’s residential home funding options will help you get a return on your energy investment. CORE removes the typical barriers that prevent homeowners from going net zero through project consultation and funding. As Sam put it, “Working with CORE helped us get on the path to carbon-free living!”

It makes it easy to love where you live when your home contributes to climate restoration, and even easier to love it when you are all about the design. According to Sam, “With the gabion baskets, shade structure, green roof, and PVs, the house is going to look really cool!”

…

Support from CORE’s Energy Concierge Team makes big reductions in energy use simple for you. Whether you are well on your way to a more efficient home like the Barneys or just need to know where to start, CORE’s Energy Concierge Team has your back. We will help you establish where you are on the path and where you are going.

Call CORE and hop on the path to sustainability.

This content is proudly included in the Randy Udall Memorial Educational Program , advancing energy education and climate action.

Designing Better Buildings: Maximizing Your ROI with Energy-Saving Solutions

Mon, 12 May 2025 23:04:46 GMT

Maximizing Your ROI with Energy-Saving Solutions

In Pitkin County, buildings account for over 55% of greenhouse gas emissions. As a property owner, your building design choices significantly impact both your bottom line and our shared environment. By partnering with the right architect and the Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE), you’ll create a powerful team that can transform your vision into a high-performance reality.

The Building Performance Formula

The most successful projects happen when owners, architects, and sustainability experts collaborate from day one. Look for a design team that aligns with your values and prioritizes sustainability alongside aesthetics and functionality.

Firms like CCY Architects in Basalt demonstrate this balance, designing spaces that "connect people to the natural environment and build community with an evocative design reflective of contemporary life."

CORE completes this partnership by providing expertise through each stage of construction, including helping you:

Navigate increasingly stringent building codes
Create customized design and project plans
Connect with experienced contractors and energy modeling specialists
Identify and stack financial incentives and financing options from multiple sources

Start with Design Fundamentals

A sustainability-focused architect will recommend strategies that deliver the highest return on investment before discussing expensive mechanical systems. Key foundational elements include:

Building orientation: A properly positioned building can save 10-20% on heating and cooling energy usage, with some achieving up to 40% savings with no added construction costs.
Building envelope: Well-designed insulation and air sealing deliver significant long-term energy savings with minimal upfront investment.
Strategic fenestration: The thoughtful placement of windows, doors, skylights, and other openings creates natural ventilation and lighting while enhancing comfort.

Beyond the Basics

Once fundamental design choices are in place, examine how technology investments can further enhance the performance and overall value of your building.

Smart building controls optimize energy use based on occupancy and conditions.
On-site renewable energy with battery storage offers independence and resilience from the communal energy grid.
Emerging and traditional approaches , like heat pumps, geothermal systems, and earth-based building materials, combine innovation with proven solutions.

The Design Difference

The most successful sustainable projects start with a clear vision and the right team. CORE can help you host a kick-off meeting with your architect to align expectations early. We define measurable energy goals, explore design options through energy modeling, and provide quality control during construction.

Thoughtful architectural design creates value beyond energy savings through increased property value, improved comfort, and lower operational costs. Look for architects who balance today's needs with tomorrow's possibilities in your building project.

CORE is your building performance hub, working hand-in-hand with you and your design team to ensure your projects prioritize environmental responsibility without compromising livability and affordability.

Contact our Energy Concierge today to begin building a more sustainable future.

CCY Architects transformed its Basalt office into a “living lab” to test sustainable design practices that could later be recommended to clients. This included installing an all-electric rooftop heat pump with CORE’s support. In the first month, gas use dropped from 52 therms to nearly zero, the equivalent of removing 700 miles of an average car’s driving emissions.

This content is proudly included in the Randy Udall Memorial Educational Program , advancing energy education and climate action.

Atlantic Aviation Pledges to CORE a $300,000 Climate Action Challenge Grant

jami@aspencore.org (Jami McMannes) — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 21:14:25 GMT

Atlantic Aviation Pledges to CORE a $300,000 Climate Action Challenge Grant

Partnership Aims to Accelerate Carbon Reduction Efforts in the Roaring Fork Valley

BASALT, CO – April 17, 2025 – The Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE) and Atlantic Aviation announced a catalyzing partnership to fast-track climate action initiatives in the Roaring Fork Valley. Atlantic Aviation committed a $300,000 challenge grant to support CORE's mission of reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change in the region.

The challenge grant is structured to maximize community involvement, with Atlantic Aviation matching every $2 raised by CORE with $1, up to the full $300,000 commitment. To qualify for the maximum gift amount, CORE must raise $600,000 in funding by December 31, 2025.

"As we celebrate CORE's 30th anniversary, this partnership with Atlantic Aviation represents an electrifying moment in our ongoing efforts to address climate change," said John Dougherty, Chief Executive Officer of CORE. "This challenge grant will help us to further scale our efforts to reduce carbon emissions through energy efficiency and electrification projects. The structure of this matching gift will build momentum in our philanthropy program and drive meaningful progress toward our climate goals."

Atlantic Aviation, which recently secured a new 30-year lease agreement as the fixed-base operator (FBO) at Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE), views this challenge grant as an extension of its commitment to sustainability and community engagement. In the Roaring Fork Valley, the transportation sector accounts for nearly 35% of regional greenhouse gas emissions, with aviation contributing more than 30% of all transportation emissions.

"At Atlantic Aviation, we recognize our responsibility to combat climate change," said Jonathan Jones, General Manager of Atlantic Aviation Aspen’s FBO. "Atlantic Aviation is committed to reducing our environmental impact and investing in programs that support decarbonization for the communities in which we operate. This partnership with CORE closely aligns with our mission to lead in environmental stewardship and help reduce carbon emissions locally through pragmatic, real investments that drive year-over-year improvements."

The funds raised through this challenge will be directed toward CORE's most impactful programs and projects, with progress to be measured by the end of 2025 in several key areas:

Reduction of metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions beyond current targets
Electrification projects in the built environment
Assessment, advising, and implementation of multifamily and workforce housing decarbonization projects
Advancement of decarbonization goals outlined in CORE's strategic plan and annual operating plan

This partnership comes without a moment to lose, as recent energy inventories from Eagle and Pitkin Counties indicate the region is not on track to meet its climate action goals by 2030 and 2050.

"We're facing a pressing timeline," said Dougherty. "This challenge grant from Atlantic Aviation will help us take bigger and bolder strides to reduce emissions and address climate change now for the sake of our community, our environment, and future generations."

This collaboration between Atlantic Aviation and CORE serves as a model for how industries, nonprofits, and individuals can come together collectively to amplify impact and contribute meaningfully to climate solutions in their communities.

How to Get Involved

Community members can help CORE meet this challenge and amplify climate action in several ways:

Make a Donation : Every dollar contributed to CORE will be matched at a rate of $1 for every $2 donated, effectively having 1.5 times the impact.
Contact CORE's Energy Concierge : CORE offers free services to help identify ways to reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency in homes and businesses.
Apply for Funding : CORE provides grants and rebates of up to $200,000 per project for energy-saving initiatives in single-family homes, multifamily buildings, and commercial properties within Pitkin, Eagle, and Garfield Counties.
Spread the Word : Encourage friends, family, and colleagues to support CORE's mission and help meet the Atlantic Aviation challenge.

For more information about CORE's services and funding opportunities or to make a donation, visit AspenCORE.org .

About CORE

The Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE) is a nonprofit organization committed to leading the fight against climate change in Eagle, Garfield, and Pitkin Counties. For more than 30 years, CORE has been at the forefront of energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions, equipping communities to address greenhouse gas emissions in the most impactful sectors, primarily the built environment. CORE is funded by philanthropic donors, business sponsors, local utilities, local governments, and state and federal grants.

About Atlantic Aviation

Atlantic Aviation offers customers more than 100 fixed base operation (FBO) locations across North America, each providing a full suite of critical services to the business aviation sector, including fueling and line services, ground transportation, catering, hangar, deicing, and ramp space. Atlantic Aviation is known for its strong cultural focus on creating a highly engaging customer experience for passengers and crews. In addition, Atlantic Aviation is a sustainability leader in the industry with ongoing initiatives that include increasing electric ground support equipment use, utilizing environmentally responsible construction methods, and establishing advanced air mobility infrastructure to provide for eVTOL aircraft when they begin service. In recognition of its ongoing leadership in sustainability, Atlantic Aviation was honored with the 2025 Sustainability Award by AIN Media Group, underscoring the company's dedication to prioritizing environmentally conscious innovation across its nationwide operations. To learn more about Atlantic Aviation and for a complete list of its locations, visit AtlanticAviation.com .

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Federal and State Tax Programs Sweeten the Deal on Home Energy Improvements

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 18:24:49 GMT

Maximize Your Tax Refund with Energy-Saving Rebates

Originally published: February 29, 2024

Updated: February 29, 2025

Tax Day is April 15, and whether you have already filed or are still pulling receipts together, it’s nice to know what tax breaks could help you save - both dollars and the planet.

The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act allocates $370 billion towards supporting consumers and industry partners in advancing - and paying for - climate action initiatives. More than $8 billion of those funds are intended to go towards funding home energy credits. In 2024, 2.3 million families received more than $2 billion in energy efficiency tax credits , averaging $880 per family.

The State of Colorado offers additional tax incentives to Coloradans, including clean energy tax credits for electric vehicles , e-bikes , industrial improvements , and electric lawn and garden equipment .

So, how do you get a piece of the pie while decreasing your carbon footprint? Let’s dig in.

For those who own homes.

When it comes to energy saving in the home, federal and state tax incentives predominantly apply to those who own the property. Many of the rebates offer up to 30% of the original cost of the equipment, including things like:

Heat pumps
Solar
Battery storage
Air conditioners
Insulation
Exterior windows and doors

Looking for more ways to save? Local utility providers like Black Hills Energy and Holy Cross Energy offer energy efficiency rebate programs. Additionally, you may qualify for CORE’s rebates and incentives for residential and commercial projects.

What if I don’t own property?

If you don’t own your home, you won’t be eligible for many of the property improvement rebates. But do not fret! There are still a lot of ways you can save energy in your home, resulting in dollars saved.

To start your energy-saving journey, take a hard look at your lighting sources. Since lighting accounts for 11% of energy use in the typical home , reduce your light energy by switching to LEDs . They provide a higher quality of light, use 75% less energy, and have a longer lifespan. While incandescent bulbs last for 1,000 hours and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) for 10,000 hours, LEDs last up to 25,000 hours or more. Make sure you recycle CFLs, which contain mercury, at the Pitkin County Landfill.

You can also install lighting controls, such as timers, occupancy sensors, and daylighting controls that are designed to only put light out when and where you need it most.

A few other ideas for reducing energy usage in the home include:

Wash your clothes in cold water.
Take a bite out of vampire loads and plug electronics into an advanced power strip .
Grab a sweater and turn down the heat.
Using wool dryer balls can reduce dry time by providing clothes with more air, reducing static, and absorbing moisture.

Want to learn more? Schedule a home energy assessment through CORE or your utility company, and then submit for up to $150 in a federal rebate to cover some of the cost.

Energy reduction savings for federal and state tax incentives span beyond properties to mobility, as well. Explore other credits and rebates available for purchases of electric vehicles, bikes, and mowers - to name a few.

If you have questions about navigating the deep hole of tax rebates, check out our website or schedule an appointment with our Energy Concierge team. A qualified tax specialist can also help you find and navigate federal and state tax forms and additional resources.

Future Savings

If you didn’t pull the plug on doing energy upgrades last year, you can still benefit from tax savings. More funding is available and will continue to be released this year and years to follow. Follow CORE , the Colorado Energy Office , and the US Department of Energy for more information.

This content is proudly included in the Randy Udall Memorial Educational Program , advancing energy education and climate action.

Lessons in Layering

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 16:32:35 GMT

Originally published: September 2023

Updated: January 22, 2025

Tighten Your Building Envelope

Living in the Roaring Fork Valley means adapting to an ever-changing mountain climate. Outdoor enthusiasts will tell you that the right combination of base, middle, and outer layers is the secret to staying cozy, safe, and energized in varying conditions.

The same goes for your home, office, or other building type. Just as a wool shirt, puffy jacket, and rain shell can regulate your body temperature, the proper combination of layers can shield your building from wasting energy, which can cause high utility bills and discomfort to the occupant.

This system of layers is known as the "building envelope."

The Building Envelope - From the Inside, Out

At its core, a building envelope is a set of layers that protects and separates what’s inside of a building from what’s outside of a building. The envelope includes a building’s foundation, walls, windows, doors, and roof.

The three main functions of a building envelope are to provide the building with structure, climate control, and aesthetics:

Structure: The structure of a building is what keeps it sturdy, like the frame, roof, and foundation.
Climate Control: Keeping elements like air and water where they belong - outside, inside, or somewhere in between - is important for your building to function efficiently and effectively.
Aesthetics : Visual elements, like siding, drywall, and paint, give your building its character and charm.

Being at high elevation, our summers are sunny and dry, our winters are freezing and snowy, and over the year, temperatures can vary from -20°F to 90°F. In these unique climate conditions, mastering your building envelope equation could result in up to 15% in energy savings. In other climate zones, energy savings could add up to 30% or more.

The Building Envelope Equation

By combining the basic elements of a building envelope with materials like insulation, weatherstripping, and caulk, you can ensure that your system will work together seamlessly to create an ideal building environment.

Below are our recommendations and a legend for achieving substantial energy savings alongside weighing the potential costs you might undergo when doing your building envelope improvement project.

Legend

�� - �� = Potential Costs

⚡ - ⚡⚡⚡⚡ = Potential Energy Savings

1. Get an Energy Assessment. CORE provides free energy assessments for Community Priority Participants , business walk-throughs and subsidized home energy assessments for $100 (a $600 value) that are conducted by professional energy advisors.

A home energy assessment includes:

a. A blower door test to detect energy leaks.

b. Detection of carbon monoxide and gas leaks.

c. Free, quick-fix installs such as LED lights, hot water pipe wrap, and water heater blanket, as well as a comprehensive report outlining your home’s inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement.

2. Select Improvement Project(s). There are a range of options to choose from, each with its own level of investment and potential for energy savings and financial support.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers these suggestions on insulation and weatherization projects as they relate to costs and energy savings:

Attics (��, ⚡⚡⚡⚡) - While insulating and sealing the holes in your attic may not be the simplest of projects, the potential energy savings are substantial. Insulation serves as a thermal barrier, keeping heat in your home when you want to keep it warm and allowing the cool air in when trying to keep temperatures lower.

Insulated attics also play an important role in preventing ice dams. Ice dams are ridges of ice that form along the eaves of a roof and can cause significant damage to buildings. They form when snow on the roof melts due to uninsulated attics, flows down to the eaves, and refreezes.

Basements & Crawlspaces (��, ⚡⚡⚡) - Similar to attic insulation, insulating and sealing your basement or crawlspace helps regulate floor temperature, creating a welcoming terrain for your feet in the winter. Controlled temperatures also protect the structural integrity of your home by preventing the warping of wooden beams and deterioration of concrete foundations.

Additionally, a properly sealed building creates a barrier against unwanted elements and pests, keeping your building rodent-free and preventing water from getting trapped in your building and forming mold.

Ducts (��, ⚡⚡) - Ducts in your building are the tunnels that link your heating and cooling system together, including the vents that release heated or cooled air. Duct systems can also maintain indoor air quality.

Well-insulated and maintained ductwork leads to energy savings. If your ducts leak and lack insulation, valuable conditioned air can escape before reaching its intended destination. When air is distributed efficiently and evenly throughout a building, it ensures that each room receives the correct amount of air.

Leaky ducts also have to work harder. Sealed ducts experience less wear and tear, potentially expanding their lifespans.

Windows, Doors, Walls, & Fireplaces (��, ⚡⚡) - When it comes to maximizing energy savings, addressing gaps in drafty areas like doors, windows, walls, and fireplaces may not yield the most significant impact. Still, it's often the most accessible starting point for building owners to tackle on their own.

Weather stripping and caulking can reduce drafts in a few simple steps. Taking it a step further, you can upgrade your insulation to modern, sustainable standards that ensure good airflow and moisture control. Not only will this boost energy efficiency, but it will also create a quieter, more comfortable environment. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, make sure it’s clean, properly maintained, and has air prevention systems in place when it’s not in use.

3. Plan Your Project. Once you’ve pinpointed your energy efficiency priorities, it’s time to map out your project. CORE partners with property owners, architects, and construction experts throughout a project’s development process to guarantee that energy-saving projects are successful without breaking the bank.

If you’re seeking guidance to plan your project, check out our listing of contractors in the area or call our Energy Concierge team, and they’ll help you achieve your goals.

4. Get Funded. There are multiple resources available to help you fund your project, including federal, state, and regional funding.

Up to $1,200 is available in tax credits through the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

CORE, specifically, offers up to $200,000 in grants and rebates for energy-saving projects . Projects must be in Pitkin, Eagle, or Garfield Counties.

Conclusion

Similar to mastering clothing layers for mountain weather, finding the right combination of layers for your building is a system of fine-tuning.

Achieving significant energy savings hinges on the effectiveness of the building envelope. By following our recommended formula and exploring available funding options, you can maximize comfort, sustainability, and cost savings.

Contact CORE to learn more about our funding as well as other resources that can help you reach your project goals.

This content is proudly included in the Randy Udall Memorial Educational Program , advancing energy education and climate action

CORE Offers Enhanced Funding & Services to Make Climate Action Accessible Across Three Counties

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 18:37:34 GMT

CORE Offers Enhanced Funding & Services to Make Climate Action Accessible Across Three Counties

Up to $200,000 available per energy-saving building project

Basalt, CO – January 23, 2025 - The Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE) is strengthening its commitment to regional climate action with enhanced services across Pitkin, Eagle, and Garfield Counties. CORE continues to evolve its community-based approach, which includes updating its grant and rebate offerings and adjusting its service model into a comprehensive building performance hub, the first of its kind in a rural mountain resort region.

"The recently released Pitkin County Emissions Inventory revealed that the building sector accounts for nearly 57% of greenhouse gases in Pitkin County," said Jamie Vogt, Director of Climate Action Programs at CORE. "The report also underscores that we are not advancing quickly enough to meet our climate action goals."

In 2024, CORE awarded $920,536 in funding to advance 145 energy-saving projects and reduced emissions by 790 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2e) - equivalent to one year’s energy usage of 106 average American homes.

Community interest and the urgent need to meet local greenhouse gas reduction goals prompted CORE to adopt a more targeted and amplified approach to help address the climate crisis. CORE’s building performance hub will serve as a resource for the community, offering:

Step-by-step building design and project planning
Building code and policy compliance guidance
Access to financing options and incentive stacking
Contractor matching services
Enhanced partnerships with energy-saving organizations

"The size of the climate crisis requires innovation and collaboration at all levels," continued Vogt. "By partnering with Energy Smart Colorado organizations and local utility providers, we're maximizing resources and streamlining access to incentives across our region. These partnerships will make climate solutions more accessible and impactful across our region.”

In addition to helping navigate regional, state, and federal funding, CORE administers a funding program that offers up to $200,000 per project. The program focuses on building projects that demonstrate high potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, such as replacing fossil fuel water or space heating equipment with heat pumps. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and are available for single-family homes, multifamily properties, and commercial buildings. Additional incentives, including free energy assessments, are available for under-resourced local property owners. In 2024, 42% of the projects CORE supported served underserved populations, and CORE allocated 46% of its grants and rebate funding to these communities.

For more information about CORE's programs and funding opportunities, visit AspenCORE.org.

About CORE

The Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization leading climate action initiatives across Eagle, Garfield, and Pitkin Counties. For 30 years, CORE has been at the forefront of energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions, creating accessible pathways for communities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the built environment. CORE is funded through philanthropic donors, business sponsors, contract services, and state and federal grants.

Contacts:

Jami McMannes, Communications & Engagement Manager, Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE), Jami@AspenCORE.org , 1-970-925-9775, x1006

Jamie Vogt, Director of Climate Action Programs, Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE), Jamie@AspenCORE.org , 1-970-925-9775, x1004

Randy Udall: A Pioneer in Climate Action (1951-2013)

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 22:06:44 GMT

"Organize, don't agonize. [...] global warming will be a huge problem, one that won't disappear in our lifetimes. Some people will see this as an excuse to be apathetic--but it's really a call to action."

- Randy Udall, 1989

Randy Udall was a visionary leader in the fight against climate change. He was CORE’s first executive director, and his efforts laid the foundation for transformative energy solutions across the Roaring Fork Valley and beyond.

Known for his passion and foresight, Randy initiated Colorado’s first solar energy incentive program and co-founded the world’s first Renewable Energy Mitigation Program (REMP) - a carbon fee model that has funded millions in local climate projects.

Before CORE, Randy was a freelance writer and environmental advocate. As early as 1987, he wrote about global warming’s emerging threats—melting glaciers, shrinking habitats, prolonged droughts, reduced Colorado River runoff, and longer fire seasons - all of which have become our current reality.

Randy’s dedication and strategic insight enabled him to mobilize communities around climate action, particularly in our region. Through his collaborations with utilities and local governments, Randy championed renewable energy and energy efficiency, pushing the City of Aspen and Holy Cross Energy to national recognition in green power leadership.

Randy also co-founded the Association for the Study of Peak Oil USA and spoke globally on energy’s complex challenges, inspiring action by helping audiences navigate the complexities of energy development.

Beyond his professional work, Randy was an avid outdoorsman and champion of the natural world. He skied across Baffin Island and explored Colorado’s high country.

Randy’s legacy lives on in CORE’s work, and his influence shapes today’s clean energy initiatives. Known for his large heart and wild mind, he inspired a generation to address our energy future with courage and imagination.

Photo Credit: Weston Boyles

Inside the Building IQ Program: Cutting Emissions One Building at a Time

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 19:16:20 GMT

Success Stories from Building IQ Participants Embracing Benchmarking

The Building IQ Program was established in 2022 to address the 57% of greenhouse gas emissions that come from buildings in Aspen . The program starts with benchmarking when a building's energy and water use is measured and compared to similar buildings. This process alone has proven to decrease a building’s energy consumption by 2-3% each year .

Ben Wolff, a long-time resident of the Roaring Fork Valley, is a managing partner and owner at Frias Properties with more than ten years of experience in property management and hospitality. Per City of Aspen Ordinance No. 5 , Wolff is required to benchmark several of his properties. While benchmarking his buildings is a requirement, Wolff finds value in the process and shared that his favorite part is meeting with the CORE team out in the field. He said, “They are all good people. It was fun to meet with them, show them the properties, and walk them through.” CORE collected utility data from the meters at each of his buildings, which Wolff said was a very simple and turn-key process.

Owners and managers of Aspen buildings can utilize CORE’s expert advice, high-quality energy-use data, and financial and technical support to improve efficiency and reduce emissions from their buildings. Since the inception of Building IQ, participants have completed a total of ten energy-saving projects using CORE’s technical advice and have received over $190,000 in funding. For example, the Yellow Brick installed the region's first electric heat pump snowmelt system with the help of a grant from CORE and advice from CORE’s Energy Concierge . The Yellow Brick is a City of Aspen-owned building and is one of the most efficient buildings in Aspen.

Aspen Meadows began working with CORE and the City of Aspen to measure the energy and water use of their building during the first cycle of benchmarking in 2022. Now in the third cycle, Aspen Meadows has partnered with CORE for support beyond benchmarking, including a heat pump project which is the first of its kind in Aspen. All of their 102 hotel rooms now have heat pumps with no backup heat. This project contributed to a 217 MTCO2e decrease in greenhouse gas emissions, equating to the emissions of 28 homes’ energy use for one year.

Dig into the 2024 Building IQ Annual Benchmarking Report to learn more about how benchmarking is impacting Aspen. To learn more about the Building IQ Program and how CORE can help, reach out to our team .

City of Aspen and CORE release 2024 benchmarking annual report

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 17:00:01 GMT

City of Aspen and CORE Release 2024 Benchmarking Report

Report summarizes energy use and reduction options for 119 of Aspen’s largest buildings

Aspen, CO - October 21, 2024 – The City of Aspen, in partnership with the Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE), has released its 2024 benchmarking annual report.

Benchmarking is a process in which building owners track and compare their building's energy and water use to similar buildings over time. Benchmarking is a component of Building IQ, an ordinance passed by the city in 2022, and helps owners and occupants understand their building's performance and identify areas for improvement.

According to the city’s environmental health and sustainability department, 57% of Aspen’s greenhouse gas emissions stem from the built environment, with commercial buildings accounting for over 60% of energy consumption.

Together with CORE, the city successfully completed three years of benchmarking. The report outlines these three years of energy and water consumption in Aspen’s largest buildings, including hotels and office buildings.

“Benchmarking has been a first step and tool for our community to forward our environmental stewardship and climate impact goals,” said Mayor Torre. “This report brings us one step closer to a more sustainable future while enabling building owners to make informed decisions that enhance efficiency, improve building performance and save money.”

So far, in 2024, 119 buildings have been benchmarked. CORE provided each building with a scorecard outlining individual building energy use and options to reduce consumption to support building owners in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. CORE provided $190,000 in funding to support 10 building retrofit projects under the Building IQ program.

The 2024 benchmarking annual report underscores Aspen’s commitment to meeting its climate action goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 63.4% by 2030 and achieve a 100% reduction by 2050. As the city continues its benchmarking efforts, more buildings will be included in the process. The next phase of benchmarking will include commercial properties greater than 5,000 square feet and multifamily properties over 15,000 square feet.

For more information and to read the full report, please visit aspen.gov/Building-IQ.

###

Contacts:

Clare McLaughlin, Sustainability Programs Administrator, city of Aspen Environmental Health and Sustainability department, Clare.McLaughlin@aspen.gov , 1-970-429-1782

Jami McMannes, Communications and Engagement Manager, Community Office for Resource Efficiency
jami@aspencore.org , 1-970-925-9775, ext. 1006

Leslie Kaplan completes her 100% electric dream home in Basalt

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 18:21:42 GMT

Energy Spotlight: Leslie Kaplan, Basalt

Leslie Kaplan’s dream of building a fully electric home in Basalt has finally come to fruition, marking a significant milestone in her journey toward sustainable living. She chose to construct a duplex in Stott’s Mill for her family and as a long-term investment.

While raising her children in a home with a gas stove, she grew concerned about its potential health risks. Gas stoves release pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide, which can affect our lungs and make breathing problems worse, and contribute to climate change (“ The Science behind Gas Stoves ”, Rocky Mountain Institute, June 15, 2023). With a clean slate, she committed to creating a healthier, sustainable home, and decided to explore her options.

Wanting to learn more about induction stoves, Leslie attended CORE’s Climate Conscious Kitchen event in 2023, where she met Mary Wiener, a CORE Energy Concierge, who guided her toward full electrification. Now, her home runs on heat pump technology for heating and hot water, solar panels for energy, and is completely gas-free.

Finding the time, money, and support to make building an all-electric home can feel like an uphill battle but Leslie was able to lean on CORE’s Energy Concierge team throughout the project for guidance. “Leslie was open to new ideas, dedicated to researching her options, and chose high quality appliances,” says Mary. From deciding on electric heat pumps to solar panels and battery storage, Leslie felt supported as she navigated through all the decisions that went into making her dream home a reality.

In addition to CORE’s project planning recommendations, Leslie also tapped into CORE’s financial resources. CORE provides funding for energy efficiency improvements for residential, commercial, and multifamily buildings in the form of Grants and Rebates . In 2023, Leslie applied for a CORE grant and was awarded $25,000. She said, “With building an all-electric home with the heat pumps and a few other additions, there was an additional cost incurred… and that [grant] really helped make the improvements to go all-electric a lot easier to afford.”

Now that her project is complete, Leslie is motivated to spread the word and encourage community members to go all-electric. She is eager for others to make the shift to sustainable living and start taking climate action. “My wish for future builders and people making renovations is that they take climate change seriously and build energy wisely.” Read her article in the Aspen Daily News.

Bill Stirling: A Lifetime of Climate Action

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 19:34:32 GMT

Bill Stirling devoted 30 years to CORE, our community, and the environment. He represents altruism, giving back, and making climate action possible for everyone, for a better tomorrow.

“My life has really been about trying to make things better in the world and bringing about positive change,” Bill said.

Bill Stirling’s journey began in Gainesville, Florida, before taking him to Kenya as a Peace Corps volunteer from 1964-1966. His commitment to service continued as he taught in Harlem and Fort Dix, New Jersey. In 1972, Bill moved to Aspen, Colorado, where he launched Stirling Homes in 1978.

As Mayor of Aspen from 1983 to 1991, Bill shaped the city’s future by preserving its charm through restrictions on development, codifying historic preservation, and implementing Real Estate Transfer Taxes (RETT) for affordable housing. His tenure also saw the creation of the Roaring Fork Transit Authority (RFTA) , the installation of clean energy projects like the Ruedi Reservoir generator and Maroon Creek hydro project, and the formation of the Aspen Energy Efficiency Committee (AEEC).

In 1994, Bill transformed AEEC and Energy 2000 into the Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE), with Randy Udall and Lynn Haines as co-directors, to lead regional climate action and greenhouse gas reduction.

“I realized it was high time to stop talking about doing something and finally do something,” Bill Stirling said. "We were trying to come to grips with all the things that were going on here with climate change. One of the first warnings for us was that the ski [resort] was losing a few days of winter in the spring and a few days of winter in the fall. We started with the low-hanging fruit, like changing lighting, insulating doors, and installing solar panels.”

Today, Bill remains a political activist and full-time realtor, serving on the CORE board for all 30 years and chairing multiple times. He continues to support CORE’s mission and Pitkin County’s goal of mitigating and adapting to climate change to preserve natural resources for current and future generations.

“Over the past 30 years, I'm incredibly proud of what this organization has accomplished,” continued Stirlilng. “CORE has remained agile and adaptive, playing a key role in initiatives like bringing wind power to Colorado and partnering with Aspen Ski Company to build a generator harnessing methane gas from the closed coal mine in Somerset . This effort provided energy for the Roaring Fork Valley. Now, we're once again tackling methane emissions, this time from an abandoned mine in Coal Basin above Redstone.”

In August 2024, CORE established the Bill Stirling Giving Society to honor Bill’s legacy and give CORE a platform to recognize our most loyal donors. Join us in continuing the work Bill started.

CORE Celebrates 30 Years of Impact and Honors Founder Bill Stirling with the Launch of the Stirling Giving Society

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 16:47:07 GMT

CORE Celebrates 30 Years of Impact and Honors Founder Bill Stirling with the Launch of the Stirling Giving Society

Basalt, CO – August 15, 2024 - On August 14, 2024, the Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE) hosted the first of two anniversary events, "Celebrating 30 Years of Impact," at the Backyard of Buttermilk Lodge. The evening paid tribute to three decades of commitment from CORE and the community in working together to tackle climate change. Bill Stirling, the founder of CORE, was recognized with the launch of the Stirling Giving Society to honor his 30-year legacy of climate action with CORE and in our region.

At the event, attendees reflected on CORE's history, celebrated its successes, and recognized the partnerships that have supported CORE throughout its continuous evolution to address the most pressing issues facing our environment and be a catalyst for implementing energy reduction solutions.

John Dougherty, CORE’s Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the importance of collective effort, stating, "CORE is not just an organization—it's a reflection of our community. We are YOUR Community Office for Resource Efficiency, and our achievements are a testament to your support, advocacy, and action."

A key moment of the evening was the celebration of Bill Stirling’s 30 years of climate advocacy and leadership with CORE and throughout our community. Stirling was presented with a barometer as a symbol of his role in helping navigate the ever-evolving landscape of climate action. Dougherty stated, “We owe a great deal to Bill and these early climate advocates for laying the foundation for our work today."

To honor Stirling’s impact, CORE launched the Stirling Giving Society, a new initiative dedicated to recognizing and supporting the organization’s most loyal donors. With a gift or pledge of $2,500 or more, members of the Stirling Giving Society will provide CORE with essential support to conserve the region’s natural resources, reduce carbon emissions, and continue the critical work that Bill began 30 years ago.

For more information, visit AspenCORE.org/30years .

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Combating Climate Change through Sustainable Farming

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 20:52:33 GMT

On twenty-two acres of land leased from Pitkin County and right off Highway 82 is Two Roots Farm , a beautiful and bountiful farm that provides produce for a 250-member Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), an onsite farm stand, and local restaurants in our community. Owner Harper Kaufam knows the importance of local, organic farming and started the farm in 2016. Her mission is to combat climate change through sustainable farming practices and grow the healthiest food possible while fostering a positive work environment, vibrant soil, and community connection.

Harper needed to install a new greenhouse for plant propagation to get her through the winter months. Greenhouses typically rely on a propane heating system, but with climate in mind, she wanted to stay away from fossil fuels. She learned about an innovative way to heat a greenhouse from the Central Rocky Mountain Permaculture Institute . It’s called a climate battery and uses the ground temperatures to control the greenhouse temperature. This innovative system will heat in the winter and cool in the summer and will reduce Two Roots’ reliance on fossil fuels, reduce costs, and extend their growing season.

CORE is a supporter of new, innovative ideas that lower carbon emissions and help our community thrive, so we provided a $30,000 grant to fund this project. This project will start in 2024, so stay tuned for an update once the climate battery is installed.

Harper is always looking for ways to lower the farm’s carbon footprint whether it's electrifying to use the on-site solar panels or installing a new climate battery. She takes a holistic approach, considering soil health, greenhouse gas emissions, and food quality. Everything is hand-powered instead of relying on diesel machinery, and the plants help sequester carbon. She uses a regenerative process to keep the soil healthy and grows a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, spinach, and radishes.

CORE supports projects that matter to our community and the locals living here. We remove the financial barrier and help more people to take action, bringing equity and inclusivity to the climate crisis.

Give our Energy Concierge a call today to learn how you can lower your carbon footprint.

The Future of Local Sustainability Codes: Insights from Local Experts

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 13:41:45 GMT

On May 30, 2024, leaders in sustainable building code development and implementation convened before those who put building codes into action through their everyday work.

“The Future of Local Sustainability Codes,” hosted by the Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE) , AIA Colorado , Land & Shelter Architecture + Planning, and the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) , gathered speakers from Garfield, Pitkin, and Eagle Counties. Panelists explored the complexities and opportunities surrounding local sustainability building codes, with an audience of architects, builders, and community members who routinely navigate our local building landscape. Moderated by Cortney Woller of CCY Architects , the panel provided diverse perspectives on advancing environmental stewardship through policy, practice, and collaboration.

Addressing Technical and Regulatory Challenges

Woller engaged panelists in discussions on successful initiatives, upcoming challenges, and opportunities for industry professionals to drive meaningful change by aligning sustainable building codes across neighboring jurisdictions. Each community represented is urgently addressing established climate action goals. However, building in our distinctive mountain communities poses unique challenges in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change impacts.

When residential building sizes max out at 9,250 square feet, how does the building sector balance client demands, revenue generation, technology access, labor availability, regulatory navigation, luxury living, and sustainable practices?

Moreover, inconsistencies in building code language across Garfield, Pitkin, and Eagle Counties compound challenges for architects and builders serving clients throughout the Roaring Fork Valley. For example, where one community imposes energy use restrictions, another may have higher thresholds.

Audience members actively engaged with panelists, grappling with these complex issues. Overcoming community resistance and securing buy-in from elected officials remain significant hurdles as local government staff and energy partners strive to develop and implement new code language efficiently and effectively.

In the past year, community development and utility experts from throughout the Roaring Fork Valley have come together to discuss how they can better align sustainable building codes. They aim to enact net-zero energy codes universally in a way that reflects their individual community values while advancing climate action goals.

Time is of the utmost essence as they develop this framework. National and State building codes are swiftly evolving in response to the rapid pace of climate change. Our communities are proactively developing approaches that support stakeholders, respecting their time and resources.

Call to Action

As our local communities forge ahead in combating climate change in the built environment, the call to action grows louder. Continued collaboration and education among policymakers, architects, builders, and community members are essential. Sharing personal experiences with municipal workers and elected officials is key to garnering public support as we navigate the complexities of carbon reduction, energy efficiency, and regulatory frameworks.

Looking ahead, integrating financial and time-saving incentives, such as expedited permitting and funding for electric projects, will foster quicker acceptance and compliance with evolving energy usage norms.

And, as we have for the past 30 years, CORE stands ready to support energy-efficiency projects with technical assistance, funding opportunities, and local provider connections.

Special Thanks

Moderator: Cortney Woller, CCY Architects

Panelists:

John Doyle – City Council, City of Aspen
Jeff Erickson – Pitkin Chief Building Official, Pitkin County
Kara Silbernagel, Deputy County Manager, Pitkin County
Bonnie Muhigirwa – Chief Building Officer, City of Aspen
Greg Poschman – Commissioner, Pitkin County
Kim Schlaepfer – Managing Director, Lotus Engineering & Sustainability

Marty Treadyway – CEO, Net Zero Builders

The Recipe for a Climate-Conscious Kitchen

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 13:41:45 GMT

The kitchen is the heart of the home, where memories are made, souls are fed, and connections are forged. It’s also a hotspot for energy consumption.

Kitchens use large amounts of electricity, water, and gas to wash dishes, keep food fresh, and cook meals. Lighting and refrigerators, for example, are used in nearly every home, and they are the fourth and fifth biggest consumers of electricity use in households in the United States.

Take steps to transform your kitchen into an environmentally sustainable space, enhance your culinary experience, and establish a safe and healthy living area. Here are a few ingredients to a recipe for a comfortable and welcoming climate-conscious kitchen.

Questions? Give us a call. We’re here to help guide you through the process.

Step 1: Buy Local ��

One of the simplest and most impactful ways to reduce carbon emissions is to source your food locally, like with a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program .

By purchasing from local farmers and participating in CSAs, you shrink your carbon footprint in several ways:

Transportation: Local food requires less travel, minimizing fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions.
Refrigeration: Fresher, locally sourced food requires less energy for chilling.
Packaging: Buying locally reduces the need for additional packaging, minimizing waste.
Storage: With less need for large warehouses, energy consumption is reduced.

[call out: Go a step further in reducing your impact on the environment and consider supporting organizations like The Fa rm Collaborat ive that practice sustainable agriculture. By adopting energy-saving farming practices, such as alleycropping, these organizations help you double up on energy savings while providing locally grown ingredients.]

Step 2: Switch to LEDs ⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

LEDs (Light-Emitting Diodes) are a game-changer when it comes to significantly reducing energy consumption in your kitchen. They use only 25% of the energy needed to light a room compared to traditional incandescent bulbs and have a long er lifesp an . While incandescent bulbs last about 1,000 hours and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) last about 10,000 hours, LEDs can last up to 25,000 hours or more.

Step 3: Cook with Induction ⚡⚡⚡

Induction cooktops offer a safe and energy-efficient alternative to traditional gas stoves that rely on open flames and fill your home with invisi ble and har mful gasses like nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter. Conversely, induction cooktops use safe electromagnetic fields to generate heat directly into pots and pans. During the process, the cooktop remains cool and safe to the touch, minimizing the risk of burns.

In addition to being a better alternative for the well-being of you and your family, induction cooktops save energy and provide more heat, helping boil water faster, for example. With 33% higher energy efficiency compared to gas stoves, this precise cooking option is an excellent choice for reducing energy consumption.

Step 4: Program Your Thermostat ⚡⚡⚡

Take control of your kitchen's climate by installing programmable or Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats. These devices allow you to schedule temperature adjustments based on your daily routines, optimizing energy usage throughout the day. Smart thermostats can even learn your preferences and adjust the temperature based on room occupancy. By utilizing a programmable thermostat, you can achieve energy savings of up to 30% while maintaining a comfortable environment.

Step 5: Reach for ENERGY STAR ⚡

Upgrade your kitchen appliances to ENERGY STAR -certified models to achieve significant energy savings. ENERGY STAR appliances meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). By opting for ENERGY STAR refrigerators and dishwashers, you can reduce energy consumption by up to 10% and 12%, respectively.

When searching for an ENERGY STAR refrigerator, Mary Wiener, CORE’s Senior Energy Concierge, recommends, “Invest in the simplest refrigerator possible. For maximum efficiency, choose refrigerators with the freezer on top or bottom of the fridge, instead of having the refrigerator and freezer side-by-side.”

“It’s also a good idea to clean the coils in the back and the front of the refrigerator every quarter so that heat dissipates effectively. When the coils are dirty, the refrigerator has to work harder to cool its interior, leading to increased energy consumption and higher electricity bills.”

Conclusion

The kitchen holds a special place in our homes and lives. By adopting sustainable practices, investing in energy-efficient appliances, and supporting local initiatives, you can create a greener kitchen without compromising on safety or the culinary delights it offers. Connect with us to navigate valuable resources, grants, rebates, and contractors that can support you on your path toward a more environmentally friendly kitchen.

Architecture + Energy Conservation: The Blueprint to Sustainable Building

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 16:06:41 GMT

Architecture + Energy Conservation

The Blueprint to Sustainable Building

Architecture, as both an art and science, goes beyond the construction of buildings; it embraces the shaping of our environments to meet the basic human need for shelter while intertwining culture, functionality, and community. However, with this essential aspect of our lives comes the responsibility of managing our natural resources. In Pitkin County, buildings alone account for a staggering 61% of energy consumption during their lifecycle , leaving a significant carbon footprint on the environment.

The integration of sustainable practices and alternatives into building design has become more important than ever. Architects are prioritizing environmental responsibility, resource efficiency, and occupant well-being in their craft to create spaces that harmonize comfort and carbon reduction.

CORE partners with property owners, architects, and construction experts through key steps in the development process to ensure your new or major renovation projects meet these basic needs, leave a lasting positive impact on the environment, and prioritize livability with the bottom line. Work with CORE through these five steps to put both design and sustainability at the forefront of your building project.

Step 1: Kick Off Your Project

Start by hosting a kick-off meeting as early as possible to lay the foundation for a successful project. Engage all of your key players, including the owner, Architect of Record, and CORE to align the project scope, values, and energy conservation standards into well-defined goals.

Your energy goals should relate to energy efficiency, electrification, and renewable energy, and factor in the latest building science, best practices, emerging trends, and building codes.

In 2023, both the City of Aspen and the Town of Basalt adopted new building codes that aligned with and exceeded The International Building Code , emphasizing the importance and necessity of electrification and energy conservation in the built environment. Your advisors can help you navigate code to ensure you’re in compliance with the current code, as well as in alignment with future regulatory requirements .

Step 2: Select Your Options

Go through energy-saving opportunities with your architect and their engineer. Options may range from building orientation, site design, aesthetic and energy considerations for the building envelope, desired types of mechanical systems, size of mechanical systems, location of outdoor mechanical equipment, and location of solar - and your determination of any of these may affect the implementation of others.

Sustainable technologies are constantly evolving and improving. When considering your options, you have the opportunity to explore these innovative technologies and weigh them with alternatives that have proven successful throughout history.

When it comes to energy conservation techniques that stand the test of time, Andy Rockmore, Denver Director of The Colorado Chapter of the American Institute of Architects and Principal with Shears Adkins Rockmore Architects said, “We find ourselves more and more looking away from technology and balancing emerging trends with more passive strategies. This is because not only do things wildly change in societal preferences, but technology is changing faster than we can keep up. We’re focusing on siding, natural vegetation, solar orientation, and wind, as well as digging into mechanical systems.”

Scott Munn, West Director of The Colorado Chapter of the American Institute of Architects and Principal Architect with MA Studios, is exploring techniques that go even further back in time. Earth plots are created with sustainable building materials made by compressing raw elements like earth, sand, gravel, and clay, with deconstructed materials like concrete, to create new materials to be used to construct walls, floors, and other structural components. “The actual mix of that soil also works as a sort of release of energy and moisture, and we can reduce the size of mechanicals when we use that type of technology,” Munn said.

Step 3: Be an Energy Model

Work with your team to get the full picture of energy savings, from the lifecycle cost to annual energy usage, and choose the designs that meet your goals. CORE can recommend firms, help review results, and help pay for the work provided by specialists . We can also help identify other funding that your project may be eligible for, including funding from CORE and other regional, state, and federal providers.

When evaluating design options, consider what your carbon footprint could look like while you’re living in your home, as well as what impacts you’ll have during construction and after your home’s existence. There are two kinds of carbon attached to buildings: operational carbon, which is the energy used to run the building; and embodied carbon, which is the energy it takes to build or deconstruct the building.

In communities like Boulder, Colorado , builders are revolutionizing the way they approach the end stages of a building. Demolition practices are replaced with a more sustainable approach known as deconstruction. Certified deconstruction specialists assess the structure and develop a plan to carefully dismantle the building piece by piece. The salvaged materials, including lumber, concrete, brick, glass, and plumbing fixtures, are stacked together for recycling, and a third party verifies the weight of recycled materials and evaluates the overall environmental impact of the process.

Step 4: Build It Right

Invest in quality review and control before, during, and after construction so your building works optimally from day one. An engineering peer review is a best practice and the owner hiring a peer review firm does not imply that they are dissatisfied with the Engineer of Record.

Commissioning firms specialize in verifying mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems are installed correctly, programmed properly, and initially performing optimally, and that building managers are provided with adequate training from the construction team on how to operate and maintain equipment.

The success of your sustainable building ultimately depends on those who are using the building. Work with your subject matter experts, including electricians and HVAC technicians, to learn how to best use the technologies in your home. Be sure you and those using the systems are well-versed in programming and managing them effectively after construction is complete.

Conclusion

In summary, architecture is not just about creating buildings; it is a multidimensional discipline that addresses fundamental human needs, cultural expressions, and environmental concerns. As the built environment continues to shape our lives, the role of architecture in promoting sustainable, functional, and meaningful spaces becomes increasingly vital in creating a better world for everyone.

For more information about starting your energy efficiency project, give us a call . We’re here to help you every step of the way.

Yellow Brick Schoolhouse is Now Safer for Children and the Environment

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 21:20:59 GMT

The Yellow Brick is one of the historical buildings of Aspen and has been a hub for education and childcare since 1960. Today, it sees more than 135 kids daily from ages two months to five years, houses three preschools, and provides jobs for locals in our community. With safety as a priority, they continue to update the Yellow Brick building while preserving the history and iconic facade. A recent project on their list was adding an icemelt system.

Until now, the Yellow Brick used traditional ice melt crystals to melt the snow and ice that covered their exterior concrete steps in the winter, which can contribute to pollution in our watersheds and rivers. Also, the City of Aspen committed to cutting its greenhouse gas emissions by 63% by 2030. With all of this in mind, the Yellow Brick turned to CORE. And, with the guidance of CORE’s Energy Concierge decided to install a heat pump icemelt system, which will be ready for use this coming winter. The new icemelt system will provide safety for families and teachers using the Yellow Brick and serve as an example for others to use electric heat pumps.

Cold climate heat pumps are three times more efficient than a gas boiler icemelt system and run on electricity. Further, since the City of Aspen Utility is 100% renewable energy, the Yellow Brick’s icemelt system is net-zero, saving energy and increasing the overall health and well-being of our community. Trevor, Yellow Brick’s building manager, said it was easy to work with CORE, and that Tim, CORE’s Energy Concierge was very responsive. The icemelt system will be added to the list of projects that CORE has worked on with the Yellow Brick, further aiding in the transition to a clean energy future.

Give our Energy Concierge a call today to learn how you can lower your carbon footprint, too.

Aspen Snowmass Gets a Sustainability Lift

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 22:33:20 GMT

CORE Funds Building and Renovations at Buttermilk

CORE awarded $100,000 to Aspen Snowmass to help construct the new Skier Services building at Buttermilk and renovate Buttermilk Mountain Lodge . These upgrades will further help our community reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reach our climate action goals.

The new Skier Services Building is equipped with heat pumps, a next-generation heating and cooling technology that allows a building to be entirely heated and cooled by electricity. Hefty insulation, advanced control systems, and architecture that captures free heat from the sun all help lighten the load on the heat pumps. In addition to being powered fully by electricity it will be powered by 100% renewable energy come 2030. Holy Cross Energy is Buttermilk’s utility provider and Holy Cross is committed to making its electric grid 100% renewable energy by 2030.

At the Buttermilk Lodge, several energy efficiency upgrades were made, including advanced controls for heating, kitchen exhaust, and refrigeration systems, which will reduce the natural gas usage in the existing building.

“CORE is a key partner in slashing community greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 in order to prevent the worst impacts of climate change in these mountains we all love,” said Ryland French, CORE’s Senior Technical Advisor. “Aspen Skiing Company is a longtime sustainability leader. From the beginning stages of the design process until project completion, we worked together to find energy-saving solutions for their construction projects. Both buildings are examples for other property owners seeking similar sustainable and advanced options.”

Both buildings are at the entrance of Buttermilk Ski Resort and are proof that you do not need to sacrifice design or beauty for energy efficiency.

Blog – CORE – Community Office for Resource Efficiency

Rebuilding with Resilience: How One Colorado Couple Created an All-Electric, Solar-Powered Home After Devastating Fire

When Community Support Changes Everything

Small Changes, Big Results

Going All-Electric: A Vision for the Future

The Power of Solar + Battery Storage

How CORE Made It Happen

Dramatic Improvements in Comfort and Cost

Lessons for Your Home Energy Upgrade

Ready to Start Your Energy Upgrade Journey?

Take the First Step Today

Building a Zero-Emissions Healing Center in Colorado

CORE Energy Spotlight:

﻿ Halle Center for Hope and Healing

Challenges and Creative Solutions

Designing for Sustainability in a Floodplain

Balancing Privacy and Solar Gain

Navigating Land Use and HOA Relations

Securing Funding for an Ambitious Vision

Key Features of a Sustainable Healing Center

The Power of Community and Collaboration

A Model for a Sustainable Future

Learn More and Get Involved

Energy-focused Basalt nonprofit announces new chief executive officer

Smuggler Park Couple Take the Path Towards Carbon-Free Living

Smuggler Park Couple Take the Path Towards Carbon-Free Living

Designing Better Buildings: Maximizing Your ROI with Energy-Saving Solutions

Maximizing Your ROI with Energy-Saving Solutions

Atlantic Aviation Pledges to CORE a $300,000 Climate Action Challenge Grant

Atlantic Aviation Pledges to CORE a $300,000 Climate Action Challenge Grant

Partnership Aims to Accelerate Carbon Reduction Efforts in the Roaring Fork Valley

Federal and State Tax Programs Sweeten the Deal on Home Energy Improvements

Maximize Your Tax Refund with Energy-Saving Rebates

Lessons in Layering

Tighten Your Building Envelope

CORE Offers Enhanced Funding & Services to Make Climate Action Accessible Across Three Counties

CORE Offers Enhanced Funding & Services to Make Climate Action Accessible Across Three Counties

Up to $200,000 available per energy-saving building project

Randy Udall: A Pioneer in Climate Action (1951-2013)

"Organize, don't agonize. [...] global warming will be a huge problem, one that won't disappear in our lifetimes. Some people will see this as an excuse to be apathetic--but it's really a call to action."

- Randy Udall, 1989

Inside the Building IQ Program: Cutting Emissions One Building at a Time

Success Stories from Building IQ Participants Embracing Benchmarking

City of Aspen and CORE release 2024 benchmarking annual report

City of Aspen and CORE Release 2024 Benchmarking Report

Report summarizes energy use and reduction options for 119 of Aspen’s largest buildings

Leslie Kaplan completes her 100% electric dream home in Basalt

Energy Spotlight: Leslie Kaplan, Basalt

Bill Stirling: A Lifetime of Climate Action

CORE Celebrates 30 Years of Impact and Honors Founder Bill Stirling with the Launch of the Stirling Giving Society

CORE Celebrates 30 Years of Impact and Honors Founder Bill Stirling with the Launch of the Stirling Giving Society

Combating Climate Change through Sustainable Farming

The Future of Local Sustainability Codes: Insights from Local Experts

The Recipe for a Climate-Conscious Kitchen

Architecture + Energy Conservation: The Blueprint to Sustainable Building

Architecture + Energy Conservation

The Blueprint to Sustainable Building

Yellow Brick Schoolhouse is Now Safer for Children and the Environment

Aspen Snowmass Gets a Sustainability Lift

CORE Funds Building and Renovations at Buttermilk

Halle Center for Hope and Healing