News

DNR HERO Program recognized for top performance in U.S.

The Louisiana Home Energy Rebate Option (HERO) program has been recognized as one of the top “Best Practices” programs in the U.S. by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). This month, ACEEE cited 18 programs with awards for exceptional state-led energy efficiency programs of which Louisiana received an honorable mention. There were five top awards, 10 honorable mentions, and three emerging program winners announced on September 15th, by the Council.

David Terry, Executive Director, National Association of State Energy Offices, said, "Energy efficiency efforts are thriving at the state level in ways that most people may not be aware of today. The program winners demonstrate how state governments can implement successful, cost-effective energy efficiency programs aimed at a variety of customer types. Rather than creating unnecessary competition, these programs complement and expand upon the existing energy efficiency program landscape offered by utilities and third-party program administrators."

According to DNR Energy Programs Manager Paula Ridgeway, the HERO program has graduated some 17,700 participants since 1999, and expects that number to double with recent enhancements and  larger rebates now being offered since receiving the economic stimulus funding last year. The DNR Energy Office estimates that to date there has been some 8.9 million MMBtu saved when participates completed the HERO program.

DNR encourages Louisiana home owners and businesses to consider making their properties energy efficient because it is by far the best investment per dollar. Learn more about HERO and other programs at Empower Louisiana online.

The ACEEE awards details are found at:
http://www.aceee.org/press/2010/09/18-state-led-energy-efficiency-programs-recognized-best

http://www.aceee.org/sites/default/files/publications/researchreports/E106.pdf