
Home Star’s Value to Manufacturers, Contractors
Proposed Legislation Would Create Rebate Program for Energy Retrofits
In an effort to help home energy technicians and equipment manufacturers in the midst of a tough economic environment, the New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) and its Legislative and Regulatory Action Center has been working for the last year to help foster the passage of a new, nationwide consumer rebate program for home energy retrofits inspired by last year’s “Cash for Clunkers” program.
For this reason, the proposal has been informally referred to as “Cash for Caulkers,” but the official name is the “Home Star Energy Retrofit Program” or simply “Home Star.”
NEFI Action Center: From Washington
Mark Morgan, NEFI’s regulatory counsel, writes about the early rulemaking status of a federal Hazmat exemption that many NEFI members utilize. He says that while a negative change is possible, the government has some options that would not disrupt energy retailers.
Home Star Brings Value to Manufacturers, Contractors
Jim Collura, NEFI’s vice president for government affairs, prepared a series of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the latest revisions to legislation that could help boost sales of home energy equipment and provide work for service departments. The full FAQ is available at www.nefiactioncenter.com for NEFI members.
Survey Says Propane Sales on the Rise
Gray, Gray & Gray, an accounting firm based in Massachusetts, recently released their 19th annual survey of Oilheat dealers and reported that more retailers are now offering propane in addition to other fuels, along with other developing trends. For more information, see www.gggcpas.com.
Northeast Propane Show Guide
Oil & Energy magazine is proud to be the official guide to the inaugural Northeast Propane Show (NPS) and has all the information attendees will need to make the most of the show. The guide features a list of all exhibitors and their booth location, along with a detailed schedule of events and more information on the sponsors that made the show possible.
Propane: It’s Showtime
Joe Rose, president of the Propane Gas Association of New England (PGANE), writes that as propane marketers prepare for another busy heating season, now is the time to prepare your staff for any new products or services that will be offered.
Oil Market Stance: Bringing Price Plans to Propane
Taylor Hudson of Hedge Solutions says that even though price protection plans are fairly ubiquitous in the Oilheat industry, they are still not used heavily by propane marketers. Hudson can be reached at taylor@hedgesolutions.com or (800) 709-2949.
Education: Basic Oilheat, Gas Classes Highlight Fall Schedule
Bob Messia, head instructor, and Andrea Medina, education coordinator, write about upcoming classes and events at the NEFI Education Foundation, as well as at other education locations. In the fall, NEFI will be offering basic Oilheat and gas courses for technicians, as well as several one-day seminars on a variety of topics.
See these topics and more in this month's edition of Oil & Energy Magazine!
Until Next Month,
Steven Andrews,
Managing Editor
