Program offers financial incentives

NEWARK - The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities’ Community Partners Initiative offers a variety of financial incentives for communities that increase local participation in the state’s energy efficiency and renewable energy programs. To receive these incentives, towns must be registered program partners and achieve specific goals for community participation in one or more of New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program offerings. Towns may qualify for up to $4,000 in incentives. In its effort to reduce energy use 20 percent by 2020, New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program provides incentives for consumers, businesses and municipalities to help recover their investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy. The Community Partners Initiative provides New Jersey communities with a forum and support to participate in the state’s clean energy initiatives. Newly-announced incentives range from $200 to$1,000 per accomplishment. Key highlights of the Community Partners Initiative include: Home Performance with Energy Star — A financial incentive of $800 is awarded to municipalities for referring 100 residential home energy assessments through the program. These assessments lead to a “whole house solution” that enables home owners to reduce energy costs, improve energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint. Green NJ Resource Team Events — Incentives of $200 are awarded to municipalities for partnering with the NJ Green Resource Team to educate residents about the benefits of using energy efficient lighting at home. New Jersey has a variety of energy efficiency programs for customers to reduce their energy consumption and utility bills, including residential and commercial and industrial programs. For more, call 866-NJSMART or visit: http://www.njcleanenergy.com/residential/programs/community-partners-initiative-0.