On November 17, 2009, The New York Times broke the story “A Stimulus That Could Save Money,” introducing the phrase “Cash for Caulkers” to everyday nomenclature; at least in our industry. Three short weeks later, President Obama proposed the new program that would be part of a broader plan to stimulate the economy, create jobs and reimburse homeowners for retrofits with energy-efficient appliances and insulation.
Now, this post won’t get into all of the details and speculation of the program; we would’ve written it a lot sooner if so. Besides, just Google “Cash for Caulkers” and look through the 785,000 search results to see exactly what the bill’s all about.
Conservationvalue.blogspot.com
We’ve been following the buzz and offer the following recommendations, if you will, to capitalize on the program and the impending future of the building energy performance certification industry.
- If you, your colleagues or partners are not already, get certified. There’s no better time than now and the resources are more accessible – and qualified – and ever before. We suggest looking into programs with the Building Performance Institute (BPI), RESnet (Residential Energy Services Network), and Home Performance with ENERGY STAR (a national program from the U.S. EPA and U.S. DOE).
- Think globally, act locally. Look at the example from the Builders Association of Minnesota. They partnered with a remodeler and window manufacturer. The “trifecta” employed 600 people that quickly trained and certified contractors and insulation installers to make improvements to 1,400 homes. A Win-Win.
- Get your voice heard. A number of organizations, from national to grassroots, are cropping up to best position themselves, their employees and clients to meet the needs of both certified professionals and engaged consumers. We recommend looking into Efficiency First, “a national nonprofit trade association that unites the Home Performance workforce, building product manufacturers and related businesses and organizations in the escalating fight against global warming and rising energy costs.
- New product and program development – Although we have to believe Honeywell was planning their Enovate™PRO Contractor Program well in advance of Cash for Caulkers news, they have the right idea. With new products, marketing support and professional development training, the program comes full circle for the professional.
How is your business reacting to the Cash for Caulkers buzz? What expectations do you have for the program?
