Grants to Citizens
The City of Cortez offers grants to citizens on various scales when opportunity arises and when funding is available. These programs have generally been in the form of rebates to citizens for energy saving improvements to their homes. In 2008 the City offered the Insulate Colorado program in partnership with the Governor’s Energy Office and will continue to offer these opportunities as they become available.
The Governor’s Energy Office (GEO) established the Solar Rebate Program in response to the growing demand for renewable energy initiatives to allow homeowners and businesses to harness Colorado's abundant solar resources.
In 2010, the City and Empire Electric Association will be a partner on two rebate programs supported by the Governor’s Energy Office and the Colorado Solar Energy Industries Association for our citizens. These programs are offered to residents within Montezuma County or within Empire Electrics territory in Colorado. For further information follow the links below:
Insulate Colorado – This grant has closed for 2010. Empire Electric is co-sponsoring this grant to insulate and/or seal attics and walls of citizen’s homes. A well-insulated and sealed attic stairway system will prevent a common source of air leakage in homes, thereby reducing energy costs and preventing discomfort associated with drafts. In a five month heating and three month cooling climate energy losses through an un-insulated ceiling hatch can aggregate to more than 250,000 btu’s, annually.
Weatherization Assistance - The Governor's Energy Office through 4Core in Durango will be distributing funds for weatherizing low-income households in Southwest CO. There is no cost to the homeowner for the weatherization audit and installing the measures recommended by the auditor. Measures may include insulation, upgrading appliances, or air sealing. To find out if you are qualified go to the 4Core website - fourcore.org/ Just click on this link and on the 4Core page click again on "Find out if you qualify for weatherization services." The City of Cortez also has a brochure from 4Core with this same information which you may come to City Hall to acquire. Further questions may be addressd to 4Core, (970)259-1916