A Note from the Executive Director
The last few months of 2024 saw continued momentum of alliance programs, a new effort to advance code compliance in rural areas and two innovative emerging technology studies. More highlights from NEEA’s work are available at the links on the right. Noteworthy third quarter developments include:
- New federal funding for a multi-year building codes effort to advance energy efficiency and resilience in the Northwest. With funding from the Department of Energy’s Resilient and Efficient Codes Implementation initiative, NEEA will provide training and business support to approximately 300 new and existing construction, inspection, and energy services professionals to support energy code compliance in rural Northwest communities.
- A new field study demonstrating the merits of integrated HVAC and lighting controls systems to save energy and improve occupant comfort in commercial buildings. The study uses granular data from luminaire level lighting controls to inform the building thermostats based on actual occupancy rather than the traditional time schedule method.
- A residential dual-fuel HVAC demonstration program launched to evaluate the efficiency of a cutting-edge gas heating system paired with a heat pump and smart controls. Additional functionality includes the ability to respond to utility operations signals (e.g. modulating between the use of electricity and gas in support of grid or gas system needs.) Findings will inform both NEEA’s emerging technology program and end-use load-flexibility project.
Finally, I’m pleased to share that NEEA was named one of the Oregonian’s Top Workplaces for 2024 as well as one of Oregon Business’ top 100 Best Nonprofits to Work for in Oregon! These rankings highlight top-scoring organizations for their outstanding work culture, based on employee surveys. It’s a privilege to do this work on behalf of the region. I look forward to working together to transform markets for energy efficiency as we begin a new business cycle in 2025.
