State Offers Foothills Energy Incentives

ALBANY, 10/24/08 -- The Foothills Performing Arts Center's new building will be eligible for more than $140,000 in energy incentives under the New York Energy Smart program of the state Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), Senator James L. Seward (R/I/C-Oneonta) said today.
 
"It means saving energy and reducing consumption in a performance venue where a lot of electricity is used," Seward said. "This is a pro-active way to reduce later energy consumption but at the start of a construction project."
 
The energy savings measures eligible for the incentive were identified in a technical assistance study and must be inspected by the authority and subsequently verified before final approval and payment. Included are specific requirements for insulation, weatherstripping, occupancy controls and other energy-use management tools that will reduce energy consumption when in place.

"As we continue to be confronted with higher energy costs, it is more important than ever that we reduce consumption and ensure energy efficiency in new construction," Seward said.

The Foothills Performing Arts Center applied for the funding. Once completed, the center will offer the area a significant venue for theater and artistic productions.

No tax dollars fund the program. NYSERDA is funded by utility assessments.