Energy Efficiency Brings Stable Rent, Better Living Conditions to Denver Senior Community

Nonprofit Energy Outreach Colorado provides grant, project oversight for upgrades that lower costs
By: Energy Outreach Colorado
 
EOC program manager Val Rick
EOC program manager Val Rick
DENVER - Aug. 31, 2016 - PRLog -- For low-income senior and elderly Coloradans, stable rent and a secure and comfortable home are a blessing, but not a guarantee.

Energy Outreach Colorado works to extend this blessing to others by supporting the improvement and preservation of affordable housing for low-income seniors, families and people with special needs. EOC provides grants and project oversight for energy efficiency upgrades and safety and health improvements so building owners and residents can spend less on energy costs and more on other necessities.

For example, 50 residents at the Argyle Park Square Apartments – a 35-year-old affordable assisted living community in Denver – are enjoying more stable rent and brighter, more comfortable apartments, thanks to EOC's work to reduce annual energy costs by an estimated $9,375. The Section 8 HUD property is owned by the Ladies Relief Society of Denver and funding for the improvements was provided by EOC, the Colorado Energy Office and the U.S. Dept. of Energy.

"With the ever-rising cost of energy and being a non-profit and a Section 8 property, we seemed to be asking for a 'gross rent increase' nearly every year to cover the cost," said Property Manager Geoffrey Vannerson.

Argyle Park Square provides rental subsidies which allow residents to pay a set percentage of their income for rent while the subsidy pays the rest. To qualify, a renter must earn 50% or less of the Area Median Income. Some of the aged 62 and above renters also are disabled.

Building improvements included a new boiler and domestic hot water system, pipe insulation, and new make-air units. Each of the 50 one-bedroom rental units also was equipped with energy efficient lighting, low-flow faucet and shower heads and bathroom exhaust fans.

"As a property owner/agent, I can't think of a better way to make improvements to modernize your property," said Vannerson. "Working with EOC has been a pleasure and the contractors they use are very professional. Our energy savings will go to further the quality of life for our residents."

EOC also guided Argyle's resident leader council to engage residents in using checklists for simple energy-saving actions like turning off lights and adjusting thermostats to the most efficient temperature. These actions will help increase annual energy savings.

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Source:Energy Outreach Colorado
Email:***@energyoutreach.org Email Verified
Tags:Energy Outreach Colorado
Industry:Energy, Non-profit
Location:Denver - Colorado - United States
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