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Youth Energy Squad
Saving Energy, Changing Lives.
The Detroit Youth Energy Squad empowers young people to make homes
more energy efficient and pursue successful careers in the green economy.
What We Do:
We
work toward this mission by training students how to do play two important
roles: 1) Energy coach and 2) Energy-efficiency retrofitter. As
retrofitters, crews install programmable thermostats and low-flow
showerheads, insulate hot water pipes, and seal air drafts with caulk,
weatherstripping, and reusable storm window kits. As coaches, crew
members learn to teach residents how to understand their energy bills, use
their appliances more efficiently, and continue to practice energy
conservation behaviors, like lowering the temperature at night and making
sure televisions aren't left on when no one is watching. The majority of households
we serve are people that benefit from physical assistance with installations.
Why We Do
It:
Energy efficiency benefits our pocketbooks and our planet
while creating much needed green jobs. Changing showerheads and
keeping a cold air from coming through the doors and windows may not sound
like much, but it can make a big difference in people's lives.
Households we serve spend about $2,500 per year on energy costs, and some
spend upwards of $5,000! These costs can eat up to 25% of the
household's budget and lead to foreclosures and an inability to pay for
health care, nutritious food, and other basic necessities. So far,
households have seen annual savings averaging 14%, or $350, following a
D-YES home visit, but some are saving as much as 30%! At the same
time, using less electricity also means less air pollution and greenhouse
gas emissions from fossil fuel use. Lastly, the experience equips
youth with valuable communication, leadership, and professional
skills that will help them succeed academically or in the workforce.
PARTNERS
Voices
for Earth Justice began D-YES in 2008, with the assistance of WARM
Training, Detroit, a leader in energy efficiency training in Michigan. In
2010, D-YES transitioned to WARM
training, where the program continues to grow in service to young people
and the community.
CONTACT
Justin Schott, Program Director
313-459-8987 justin@youthenergysquad.org
 
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