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 Powerful Projects HMLD Works to Save You Money On Energy Summer 2008
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KEEP YOUR COOL THIS SUMMER - And Save Money Too!
The summer months mean baseball, lemonade, pool parties and usually much warmer temperatures. Does the thought of keeping cool have you counting your pennies? Here are some things you can do to save both energy and moneyduring the warm months:
• Set the air conditioner just a few degrees higher - You can save cooling costs by setting your thermostat above 78 degrees, clean air filters and vents; pull down shades on east, west and south-facing windows to reduce cooling load; keep lamsp away from thermostat.
• Reduce air leaks in your home - Change air filters and seal ducts. Insulation keeps the heat outside in the summer and reduces the number of times your cooling system needs to cycle on.
• Turn off the juice when not in use - Computer and electronic equipment draws electricity even after switched off. Either unplug when not in use, or use a power strip for multiple devices and unplug it.
• Use your appliances wisely - Use dishwasher only when it is full and only once in the evening when it is cooler; do full loads when you run washers, dryers.
From our helpful Staff at HMLD:
We are your local light department -- We are here to help our customers. Our office hours starting July 14th:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 7:30am to 4:00pm Tuesdays 7:30am to 7:00pm Fridays
7:30am to 12:00pm
Please contact us if you have a question or need assistance:
HMLD One Holden Street Holden, MA 01520 Telephone: 508-829-0276 Fax: 508-829-0280
Reminder: You can pay your utility bills online by logging onto the Town's Web site at www.townofholden.net, clicking on Pay Bills Online, and following the screen prompts. It's quick, easy and saves you time and money. |
THANKS! Solar Energy Generation Project
We would like to extend a big "THANKS" to our customers who went to town meeting and supported HMLD's newest project -- Solar Energy Generation. The HMLD is planning to install a solar power generation pilot project.
Before long, you will see an array of solar photo-voltaic panels atop Department Headquarters. Once operational, by next spring, we expect to generate about 5 kilowatts of electricity which will be distributed back into the Grid. Although a small step, if it proves a successful and financially viable alternative, we would look to other installations in the future.
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Planning you own private solar project? Thinking of connecting to the electric grid to distribute excess energy generated? Contact the HMLD or go online to read over our "Net Metering Policy." For the alternative energy aficionado, the policy also covers wind turbines, dry cells, and hydro power. |
APPLIANCE REBATE PROGRAM
Rebates on the following ENERGY STAR rated appliances are available through your Holden Light Department:
Air Conditioners Clothes Washers Dehumidifiers Dishwashers Refrigerators
To see if you are eligible for a credit rebate or to obtain an application, call the HMLD or the Toll-Free Energy Hotline: 1-888-772-4242. |
Water/Sewer Division
Conservation and Rates
NEW WATER-SEWER BILLING RATES EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2008 |
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Residential Water Rates: |
Non-Residential-Commercial Water: |
Minimum |
$4.06 |
Minimum |
$8.02 per HCF |
150-500 CF |
$3.20 per HCF |
Over 150 CF |
$3.20 per HCF |
501-1000 CF |
$3.85 per HCF |
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1001-1500 CF |
$4.84 per HCF |
Non-Residential-Commercial Sewer |
Over 1500 CF |
$5.82 per HCF |
Sewer Surcharge |
$1.53 per Month |
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Minimum |
$14.80 |
Residential Sewer Rates: |
Over 150 CF |
$4.08 per HCF |
Sewer Surcharge |
$1.53 per Month |
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Minimum |
$9.26 |
Non-Metered Sewer Rates: |
150-500 CF |
$5.21 per HCF |
Sewer Surcharge |
$1.53 per Month |
501-1000 CF |
$6.26 per HCF |
2 Bedrooms |
$29.82 per Month |
1001-1500 CF |
$7.50 per HCF |
3 Bedrooms |
$44.73 per Month |
Over 1500 CF |
$9.02 per HCF |
4 Bedrooms |
$59.64 per Month |
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(CF=Cubic Feet; HCF=One-hundred (100) Cubic Feet) |
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WATER CONSERVATION TIPS
Household Hints to Conserve Water and Money
Why Conserve?
Water Conservation is the most cost-effective and environmentally sound way to reduce our demand for water. Using less water puts les pressure on our sewage treatment facilities, and uses less energy for water heating.
There are many effective ways to conserve water in and around your home. Some helpful tips are listed below:
 Water your lawn only when it needs it. Step on your grass, if it springs back when you lift your foot, it doesn't need water. Don't water the sidewalks, driveway or gutter. Adjust your sprinklers so that water lands on your lawn or garden where it belongs--and only there.
If you have an automatic sprinkler system, install a rain or moisture sensor so that the system will not operate during or after rain events. If you have a sensor, check to make sure it is functioning properly.
Check your toilet for leaks and repair if necessary. If you wash dishes by hand, don't leave the water running for rinsing. If you have two sinks, fill one with rinse water. If you only have one sink, use a spray device or short blasts instead of letting the water run.
 Toll Free Energy Hotline
A real energy expert is just a call away.
Call the Energy Hotline at 1-888-772-4242.
Representatives from our friends at Energy New England (ENE) are available Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to provide assistance with your questions on energy conservation and energy efficiency. Ask them about a home energy audit.
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