Austin Energy's New Energy Audit Program in Austin Texas

June 1st, 2009, Austin Energy's new Energy Audit Ordinance took effect in Austin, Texas. Basically, the ordinance requires homes in Austin that are getting electricity from Austin Energy to get an energy audit when selling. Instituted under Mayor Will Wynn's reign as Mayor of Austin, the ordinance is receiving mixed reviews. Many people are mad because it is required. My opinion on the ordinance is flavored by my long standing interest in ecology including energy efficiency. I had my first energy audit done on a home I owned back in the early 1980's. This first energy audit was an enlightening experience. A blower door and smoke pencil was used to show visually where my home's energy leaks were. The blower door created pressure enough to see smoke exiting through power outlets as well as around windows and doors and other places. Most items on the list of to dos created from the audit, I was able to do myself. I saved an incredible amount of energy so the ROI or Return On Investment was really impressive. The home was built in the 1940's and had no insulation in the walls and little in the attic. The auditor was from the electric utility and he gave me an extensive list of suggestions. I also made my own Roman Shades and placed them over the west windows so that in the afternoon, when the sun set, I would not get the incredible heat gain. I had another energy audit done 3 years ago on my home I currently own outside of Austin Energy's jurisdiction. The two audits I have done were very extensive. The required Austin Energy audit is minimal compared to my two. However, homeowners can voluntarily have the auditor do more. I have done my audits voluntarily because I wanted to save money by making my home more energy efficient. Austin's program is required. Enforceability is an issue that will be determined as the program comes along. I blog GREEN at TexasOrganicHome.com