Fourth Track: Resource & Energy Efficiency
Texas PACE Authority - Keeping Renewables in Texas
Charlene Heydinger
Resource and Energy Efficiency
G121
This presentation will include a more in depth explanation of the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program, how it works and how it can be used by property owners in Texas by exhibiting successful case studies. This program has proven the financial benefit of improving the energy efficiency of properties. Texas Pace Authority would provide summit attendees with a new perspective on the needs of business owners in Texas and demonstrate a fiscal avenue to encourage resource conservation.
About the Speaker:
Charlene Heydinger
Charlene Heydinger has been the president of the Texas PACE Authority since 2015 and the executive director of Keeping PACE in Texas since 2012. She has worked with the Texas Legislature since 2012 to introduce and progressively expand the PACE program throughout the state. She has been integral in creating a statewide environmental business coalition and has worked with representatives from every political party to improve financing for purchases that reduce energy use with the PACE bill.
Sustainability and Nutrition and Health
Carol Taylor
Resource and Energy Efficiency
G121
Sustainability is more than agriculture and the health of the planet. It's also about the health of the people. Research has shown that plant-based eating is important of conserving resources, but it is also important to sustaining health.
Objectives:
- Discuss plant-based diets as environmentally efficient.
- Discuss the role of plant-based eating in maintaining health.
About the Speaker:
Carol Taylor
Carol Taylor, MCN, RD, LD received her Master of Clinical Nutrition from UTSW in 2012. She works as a consultant. She believes good nutrition to be of vital importance to leading the life. Good nutrition is not just the foundation for physical health, but also for psychological and economic well-being. By focusing on improving nutrition, people can discover reservoirs of mental and physical energy needed to thrive in all areas of their lives.
Facts VS. Myths; The Truth About Solar Today
Thomas Edds
Resource and Energy Efficiency
G126
Are you tired of the hype and confusion from too many so-called "Solar experts?"
Good news! Now you learn the most current, reliable information from one of Texas's most credible Solar professionals, Thomas Edds, Owner of Electric Distribution and Design Systems.
Thomas will dispel many of the "myths" surrounding solar, such as the "free solar panels" hype by some companies, and the "buy vs. lease" options. He will also discuss the financial considerations every property owner must know, and the Federal Tax Credits that change at the end of 2019.
About the Speaker:
Thomas Edds
Having installed over 60,000 solar panels for both residential and commercial applications throughout Texas, Thomas is familiar with a wide variety of applications and installations. He will discuss what every property owner should consider when determining the best solar system for their site.
Electric Distribution and Design Systems (EDDS Solar) has been in business for 20 successful years and was recently recognized by Solar Power World in the TOP 500 Solar Contractors (out of thousands!) for the fifth year!
Dallas Resource and Energy Efficiency Initiatives
Susan Alvarez
Resource and Energy Efficiency
G219
The City of Dallas has been making steady progress toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy efficiency for City operations. With the formal development of a climate action plan, and the recent Green Energy Policy resolution, the city has committed towards implementing 100 percent renewable power, including on- and off-site generation, continued energy efficiency improvements for our buildings and implementation of an ISO- 50001 Energy Management System. This provides a summary of City initiatives towards greater resource and energy efficiency.
About the Speaker:
Susan Alvarez
Ms. Alvarez is serving as the assistant director of the City of Dallas Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability. She has a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, with a minor in geology from Rice University, and postgraduate work in water resources. She is a Registered Professional Engineer in Texas and five other western states, and is also certified as a Certified Floodplain Manager and Master Naturalist in Texas. Ms. Alvarez brings over 35 years’ experience in broad practical experience in civil and environmental planning, engineering and management for municipal, tribal, state and federal governments. She is currently focused on the Comprehensive Environmental & Climate Action Plan and the City’s environmental outreach efforts.