Romaine, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County Host Energy Efficiency Education Platform

Lunch & Learn Event is Part of Ongoing “Solar Up Suffolk” Initiative

YAPHANK, NY – Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Suffolk County hosted an event at Suffolk County Farm to educate County employees and community members about home energy efficiency as part of the County’s ongoing Solar Up Suffolk initiative, a multi-pronged program to encourage Suffolk residents and businesses to deploy solar power.

“Solar Up Suffolk is a way for the County to encourage more residents and businesses to explore the benefits of solar power,” said Romaine. “By providing our employees and residents with the knowledge and tools needed to save energy and money, we are continuing to take the necessary steps to address the climate crisis one day at a time.”

The event was the third Solar Up Suffolk event since the initiative’s launch in Spring 2024, which included a community Solar Fair at the H. Lee Dennison Building and a virtual information session during Earth Week. The County will continue to host additional Solar Up Suffolk events in the future.

CCE Suffolk is part of a new regional program called The Long Island Regional Clean Energy Hub, which includes other local organizations focused on education and providing information to residents at all income levels. The Clean Energy Hub traditionally recommends a free Home Energy Assessment as a vital first step in improving your home's energy efficiency and comfort. This comprehensive evaluation identifies energy loss areas and highlights any potential health or safety issues. PSEG Long Island offers free energy efficiency home assessments to all customers, regardless of their heating fuel source.

“Our Clean Energy Program at CCE Suffolk is dedicated to offering sustainable solutions that benefit both county residents and the environment,” said Vanessa Lockel, Executive Director of CCE Suffolk. “It’s an honor to host County Executive Ed Romaine and to demonstrate how collaboration between government and organizations like Cornell Cooperative Extension is advancing the clean energy movement."

Two local contractors, Green Team Long Island and Home Efficiency Experts, donated staff time and equipment to demonstrate various measures that can be taken to make a home more energy efficient. The contractors provided guided tours at a home on the Suffolk County Farm that has been converted to CCE offices.

One of the companies donating their time and expertise was Green Team Long Island, based in Holbrook. CEO and Founder Jay Best said, "Conducting a residential energy audit is a first step for homeowners seeking to reduce their home's energy use, save money and be more comfortable. It's also the first step in identifying programs from utilities, NY State and local towns that can save thousands off the cost of upgrades. Beyond immediate savings, it’s an investment in a more comfortable, efficient, and eco-friendly living space."

Ronkonkoma’s Home Efficiency Experts also guided participants around the converted farmhouse. Owner Mark Hoffman said, “I’m thankful for the chance to participate in this event and work alongside CCE Suffolk. The clean energy solutions available can be key to improving a home’s efficiency. We’re grateful for Suffolk County's support in highlighting these crucial measures.”

###