Energy-saving efforts are where money is being spent today. The federal government is pushing states to start saving energy -- now. New York state (like many others) has established a new entity devoted entirely to energy saving. The New York State Energy and Research Development Authority, or NYSERDA, (no, Jon Stewart didn't make that up) is putting its money (ours, actually) into home weatherization efforts. In fact, NYSERDA recently covered the $1,200 cost of a six-day class that enabled me to become certified as a home energy auditor. The investment reflects the importance the state places on having educated people on the ground to help seal up homes.

Let's face it, there aren't many of us who can drop 10 G's for the latest high-tech home heating system just to save a few hundred bucks a month for half the year. But we can all do something about keeping the heat or A/C we do have from leaking out of the house. If the axiom for real estate is location, location, location, then the mantra for your house should be air sealing, air sealing, air sealing. The first step is to stop the air from getting in or out of your house. Insulate your walls and ceilings. If you can, isolate unconditioned spaces from heated or cooled areas and you will accomplish a lot without spending a ton of money.

To help you with all of this, NYSERDA is offering grant money, rebates and low-interest loans to get you started. It is not much, but it takes the sting out of your home improvements. If you aren't sure where to start or would like more information, please contact us via our website at www.kajagamdesign.com/contact.htm.

In our next issue, we will discuss some other ways to be green. Until then, remember you don't have to buy something green to be green, just be green -- get out of your car and walk, eat your vegetables and call your mom.

Ken Skalski is a partner in Kaja Gam Design and is an irregular contributor to this ezine.

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