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Net Zero Energy

by Karl Wagenhoffer III

The Sustainable Energy Fund (SEF) has announced exciting news.  They will be building Lehigh Valley’s first commercially viable net-zero energy building.  The Sustainable Energy Fund’s building will provide enough power to be self-sustaining and supply energy back to the grid utilizing clean energy technologies.  The 15,000 square foot facility will be an ideal example for businesses and consumers to strive towards.  It is spectacular to see SEF putting their money where their mouth is and leading by example.

SEF is a green energy champion promoting energy efficiency and the utilization of renewable resources. They specialize in partnering with energy service providers and contractors with the capabilities to make clean, renewable energy a reality.  Their partners are qualified industry experts creating a powerful network of like-minded, forward thinking professionals with a common goal.  Ease the reliance of non-sustainable resources and provide a more sustainable approach to powering our future.

This effort makes it simple for consumers and businesses alike to identify ways to become more energy efficient, convert to cleaner energy and finance energy projects.  Another way the SEF differentiates itself, beyond providing ideas, solutions and partners, they help finance energy savings projects, bringing them to realization.   This is done by helping their clients understand the impact creating a sustainable energy environment has on the bottom line.  A reduction in utility expenses can help to offset the burden of cost for the projects.  Environmental attributes can be monetized to further incentivize projects.  Local, state and federal tax credits, grants, loan guarantees etc., can be provided to make projects more realistic.  And, 3rdparty loans can be extended to finance the project at a low interest rate.  This information and more can be found at SEF-Get Financing.

Whether challenged to stay compliant with ever changing energy regulations, a moral obligation or virtue to lower one’s self carbon footprint or discover innovative ways to stay ahead of the industry, the Lehigh Valley is fortunate to have an organization such as the Sustainable Energy Fund to rely on.  It will be very exciting to see their net-zero building come to fruition and even more so to see how this will impact the Greater Lehigh Valley as a whole.