Aase Haugen Homes uses energy audit to become more "green"

(Front row, left to right) Aase Haugen's Lynn Monroe, Deb Miller and Kate Klimesh. (Back row, left to right): Sue Bjelland, Sue Hanson and Diane Poirier. (Not pictured, but members of Aase Haugen Home's ECO committee): Jim Norton, Dennis Quam, Don Wurtzel, Sue Darling, Betty Storla, Linda Fretheim, Kulla Mincks, Karen Berg and Deb Rasmussen.

Aase Haugen Homes in Decorah is using electric audit won by taking part in the Winneshiek Energy District's "Green Business Challenge" to find ways to save money and become more environmentally responsible.

The commercial energy audit identified payback for specific improvements such as lighting. A committee at the nursing home has already instituted several changes, including recycling, using real plates and silverware in the break room, growing veggies and shutting off electronics.  "We are working on changing lights to more efficient CFL bulbs," states Aase Haugen's Lynn Monroe.

A more in-depth electrical audit being done by Smartgreen Consulting will find more specific way to gain electric savings for the facility.

"We are just getting started.  Our staff has been very involved and we meet monthly.  The recycling center presented an in-service for staff.  We are learning a lot," explained Monroe.

Businesses wishing to join the Green Business Challenge can contact Carolyn Corbin at bizinfo@energydistrict.org.  Those interested in obtaining an in-depth commercial energy audit,  cost-share and other energy incentives can contact Andy Johnson at the energy district at andy@energydistrict.org or calling 563-382-4207 or find out more information at www.energydistrict.org.