Elizabeth joined PEC in 2021 became the Director of Finance in February, 2023. Prior to joining PEC, Elizabeth spent 15 years working, in several positions, for an agency that raised money for nonprofits nationwide.
PEC
James Bussells
James Bussells joined PEC in August 2021 as part of the development team. He attended James Madison University from which he graduated in 2020 with a degree in Public Policy & Administration.
Heat Your Water More Efficiently
According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, the average household spends more on water heating than any other energy cost besides heating and cooling. That water heater tank hidden in your closet or down in your basement is working non-stop to keep the water warm and to heat up the cold water that refills it after each use. You don’t need to switch to cold showers to save money—you can reduce your costs greatly by taking a handful of simple steps.
Program Your Comfort
Heating and cooling costs tend to be the single largest component of your utility bill. Instead of leaving your heat or air conditioning on full blast when you’re not home, install a programmable thermostat for your system.
Add a Blanket
Upgrading your attic insulation can dramatically reduce your heating and air conditioning costs, improve the value of your home, and add to your day-to-day comfort. While this project may cost you $200 or more, once it’s in place it will allow you to save money on your energy bills for the life of your home. And more good news is that your insulation material may qualify you for a federal tax credit.
Insulating Your Attic Door or Hatch
In most homes, the attic door or hatch, is a framed plywood square in the ceiling of a hallway or bedroom, with no insulation above it. Without insulation, it is like having an open door to the outside or an open fireplace flue.
Light Right
The average household dedicates about 5% of its energy budget to lighting every year, with much of the cost owing to the few lights that are on the most. So switching those frequently used bulbs to light-emitting diodes (LEDs) is the place to start. Find the 10 lights you use most, and the lights you use at least one hour per day, and make the change.
What is the Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative?
Native grasslands have suffered the most intense impact by humans of any of North America’s terrestrial ecosystems, resulting in grassland-associated birds experiencing a steeper, more consistent decline than any other guild of birds.
On the Ground Updates – June 2021
A series of short updates from around the PEC region – Albemarle & Charlottesville, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier, Greene, Loudoun, Madison, Orange & Rappahannock.
Every Five Years…
The Land Trust Accreditation Program recognizes land conservation organizations that meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. The Piedmont Environmental Council is pleased to announce it is applying for renewal of accreditation. A public comment period is now open.