The nonprofit Community Justice Connect hosted an energy-focused workshop on Wednesday, May 14, at its Bronx location at 3213A Third Ave.
The workshop featured four guest speakers who each addressed attendees and answered questions related to energy costs. The panel included Annie Carforo, Climate Justice Campaign Manager at WE ACT for Environmental Justice; Cameron Clarke, Environmental Health Fellow at WE ACT; Phil Opsasnick of the Association for Energy Affordability; and Jared Logan, Solar Sales Manager at Smarter Energy Services.
Carforo discussed key components of the NY Heat Act, a proposed law aimed at reducing New York’s reliance on fossil fuels for heating and cooling. She explained that the legislation would end public subsidies to gas companies, implement an “all of the above” energy policy, and cap household utility costs at 6% of income.
Clarke explained how community solar works, particularly for residents who may not be able to install panels—such as those living in apartments or homes with too much shade. He encouraged attendees to consider subscribing to a share of a community solar garden. Subscriptions help fund the project for developers, while participants receive credits on their electricity bills based on the portion of energy their share produces. Clarke also outlined the application process and required documentation.
Opsasnick addressed attendees on how to save energy and money, as well as how to get smart with lighting. He stressed the importance of making sure lights are not kept on all the time and using lower-wattage bulbs that are LED rather than CFL or incandescent bulbs. At the end of his portion of the workshop, Opsasnick provided attendees with two LEDbulbs in an energy kit, which also featured other related items.
Logan helped attendees put together an energy action plan, a strategic document outlining steps to reduce energy consumption and increase renewable energy. Each attendee wrote actions they wished to take to lower their monthly energy costs on a worksheet.
