Winter is here and this means turning on your office heating system to keep the  office at a comfortable temperature.   The cost of heating can be substantial for local governments because the cost of traditional heating methods (natural gas, propane, and electricity) is increasing.  These fossil fuels also have an adverse impact on the environment. Throughout the Knowledge Network there are multiple examples of how to combat your rising heating costs and reduce carbon footprint.  Below are three of the more innovative solutions to these issues.

1. Due to a strained budget the Fairfax County Public Schools in Alexandria, Virginia implemented the Durkin System to help save heating and maintenance costs.
2. Cowlitz County in Washington State partnered with Siemens to implement an all-green geothermal heating and cooling system.
3. A PM Magazine article covers the basics of being a solar community and reducing your dependence on fossil fuels.

If your community wants to undertake projects like these, get in touch with the experts at the Center for Sustainable Communities.  

What is your community doing to combat these costs? What innovative solutions can you offer your colleagues?

Douglas Shontz

ICMA Knowledge Network Intern