Keller Williams Scott Kurlander

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: 4CORE

Global goals for local nonprofit

By Hunter Harrell

In today’s market, buyers are drawn to energy efficient homes for the myriad of benefits, including increased comfort and savings. However, on a larger scale, using energy in a more efficient manner can reduce emissions and pollution, forming healthier communities for each of us to call home.

The Four Corners Office for Resource Efficiency (4CORE) is a small nonprofit organization focused on reducing the impact of climate change through a variety of programs and projects that aim to reduce carbon emissions. Born from a grassroots collaboration of citizens, utilities, and governments, 4CORE continues to provide education, outreach and services to low-income households across five counties in the region.

While some of the programs focus on clean transportation or water conservation, other programs focus on energy efficiency in homes and businesses. Each program or project has different deliverables, but they all come with a piece of education and outreach, said executive director Laurie Dickson.

Energy Smart Colorado

4CORE and Energy Smart Colorado provide access to energy audits for residents and homeowners in the region. After the assessment, residents will receive a detailed report that outlines the current condition of the home and recommendations for improvements. The program can also connect homeowners with an adviser that can help them secure rebates or apply for financing. CARE

Using Energy Outreach Colorado funding, Colorado’s Affordable Residential Energy (CARE) program helps low-income residents implement cost-effective efficiency measures in their homes. Those who qualify will receive assistance from an energy adviser, who will assess the property. Potential upgrades can save residents up to 25% on energy bills annually, and may include sealing air leaks, adding insulation and installing programmable thermostats. Home H20

“Conservation of water is obviously at the forefront here in the southwest where drought has become our way of life,” Dickson said. Since saving water also saves energy, the Home H20 program includes rainwater harvesting demonstrations and workshops in addition to group-buys where barrels are available at 50% of their retail cost. ReCharge Colorado

Transitioning to zero-emission vehicles is part of the official Colorado Electric Vehicle Plan 2020, and 4CORE is in its sixth year of promoting and supporting the development of EV infrastructure. 4CORE also hosts educational presentations as well as ride and drive events to encourage residents to adopt electric vehicles. Carbon Offset Fund

The Carbon Offset Fund helps to raise awareness of our individual impact while providing another avenue for funding efficiency upgrades in this community. “People can offset their carbon footprint by donating to this fund,” Dickson said. “As the fund grows, we are going to award lower-income families loans for installations for energy efficiency upgrades.” Roll to Restaurants

Through the Can Do Colorado Community Challenge, the Colorado Energy Office awarded 4CORE with a $50,000 grant earlier this year to fund a new program dubbed Roll to Restaurants. The goal of the program is to provide free ebikes for low income essential workers at four Durango Restaurants, which promotes clean and healthy transportation. 4CORE programs have saved businesses and families in our region over $700,000 in utility costs to date, according to the organization’s website. As the organization works toward its mission, it creates a more sustainable world for the next generation.