Requiring businesses to get a 30 min. water & energy evaluation (Free Resource & Energy Business Evaluation Ordinance), 2009
CHULA VISTA, CA
Chula Vista FREBE flyer screenshot.
HOW IT CAN BENEFIT YOU
Buildings consume 41% of all U.S. energy to heat, cool and keep lights and appliances on. And 91% of it is dirty energy. Increasing your building's energy efficiency can improve:
- How hot or cold you feel by managing heating and cooling systems efficiently.
- Your lighting, which can result in a 27% reduction in the incidence of headaches, which costs about $70 per employee annually in health insurance.
So in 2009, Chula Vista created an ordinance requiring businesses to get a free ($300 value), 30 minute on-site assistance to reduce energy and water costs via free products, rebates, and suggested recommendations.
WHY IT'S A LEADING PROGRAM
As of 2010, Chula Vista knew of no other city requiring businesses to to get an energy evaluation. It's unique because it has enough staff to make sure businesses comply.
GOAL
Help businesses save money, energy and water.
WHO CAN TAKE ACTION
Businesses with storefronts or offices must comply. Home-based or mobile businesses (e.g., food trucks) are exempt.
OUTCOME
In the first year of implementation, 72% of 993 businesses participated. 71% of them implemented recommendations. About 150 businesses (that did not have to comply) asked for an evaluation. (Read more).
CONTACT
Brendan Reed, Environmental Resource Manager, Chula Vista Department of Conservation & Environment Services, 619-409-5889, breed@chi.chula-vista.ca.us
LAST UPDATED
September 11, 2015