For the seventh year, Arkansas Valley residents can visit some of the region’s most sustainable homes and learn to save money by using less energy at the Ark Valley Green Homes Tour on September 27. The tour is free and open to all.
The tour kicks off at the Salida Farmer’s Market (Alpine Park at 5th and E Street) Saturday, September 27, from 9 a.m. until noon. Those interested can pick up tour maps at sponsor New Energy Colorado’s booth. Even those not going on the tour can learn a lot from the energy efficiency measures for homeowners that will be on display, along with information about government and utility incentives to lower the costs of green upgrades. Information about local companies providing energy upgrade services will be easy to pick up. Ark Energy Future, GARNA and Sustainable Chaffee are co-sponsoring the tour.
After learning about home efficiency at the market, interested residents can check out homes in the Salida area until 2 p.m. to learn about energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable living practices. Interested residents can visit with the homeowners and learn all about the features. Homes will showcase
newly installed solar energy systems, hemp construction, and electrification of homes previously using gas. One home is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU).
As part of the event, a presentation by area homeowners on installing heat pumps to efficiently supply both heat and cooling is also open to the public. It will be at Elevations Brewery Sept. 28 at 5 p.m.
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New Energy Colorado works to engage citizens in shaping the future by providing education about how our energy system and utilities function today, and what changes are needed to pave the way for a future dominated by energy efficiency, renewable energy and a smart grid. For 30 years, the non-profit has sponsored a green homes tour in metro Denver.
The event is also part of the American Solar Energy Society’s National Solar Tour.
In addition to the in-person tour, interested citizens can visit the Virtual Green Homes Tour showcasing some of the leading homes from past metro Denver home tours at NewEnergyColorado.com. The Metro Denver Green Homes Tour returns this year on October 5 and more information is available on the same website.
Many GARNA programs require a Liability Release Form be filled out each calendar year.
Your registration is secured upon receipt of payment, as long as there space is still available in a program. If you prefer not to register online (recommended), you may mail a check, made out to “GARNA” to the address below or stop by the office. Please include a note with the program you are registering for. Be aware, some programs sell out quickly, and we cannot confirm your spot with a mailed registration.
PO Box 1522
Salida CO 81201
Cancellation policy:
If we are notified of your need to cancel by 24 hours of program date, your program fee will be refunded except for a $3.00 administrative fee. No refunds within 24 hours or after the event (but most events are transferable). If minimum enrollment has not been met 2 days before program date, programs will be cancelled and we will refund the full amount.
