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In this conversation, Beth Holaday, Senior Sales Manager at Verde Energy Efficiency Experts, joined the Pod to explore the intersection of sustainability and business. She shares the journey that she takes building owners and facility managers on when starting their energy efficiency journey, starting with the lowest-hanging fruit—LED lighting and controls—that often have the quickest payback period, before moving on to larger investments. Beth also dives into how advanced rooftop controls can enhance HVAC efficiency and extend the life of your equipment.  

This episode demystifies energy efficiency strategies and explains how to leverage incentives and advanced controls for smarter building management.  

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Learn more about Verde Energy Efficiency Experts here.  

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In this conversation, Wayne Beals, a seasoned realtor and sustainability advocate, shares his insights on the intersection of real estate and green building. He discusses his journey into the world of sustainable buildings, the critical role realtors play in educating clients about high-performance homes, and the importance of policy advocacy in advancing green building practices. Wayne emphasizes the need for trust in realtor-client relationships and the emotional aspects of transitioning to all-electric homes. He also addresses the social justice dimensions of green building and offers advice for professionals looking to engage in sustainability efforts. 

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In this conversation, Bob Hattier, the Director of Renewable Energy for IBEW Local 134, discusses the evolving landscape of renewable energy and workforce development. He highlights the importance of attracting young talent to the industry, the impact of legislation on training programs, and the challenges and opportunities presented by energy storage and electrification. Bob emphasizes the need for a skilled workforce to meet the demands of a transitioning energy sector and the collaborative efforts required to engage stakeholders in this process. He also shares insights on upcoming developments in training curriculum and local policies that support the growth of renewable energy in Illinois.

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In this conversation, Delmar Gillus, COO of Elevate, discusses the importance of equity in clean energy initiatives, particularly in underserved communities. He emphasizes the role of workforce development in creating job opportunities and the importance of community engagement in building partnerships. Delmar also highlights the impact of recent legislation, such as the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) and the Clean and Reliable Grid Act (CRGA), on advancing clean energy goals in Illinois. Looking ahead, he shares Elevate's focus on energy affordability and community resources to address energy burdens. 

Clean and Reliable Grid Act Explainer: https://www.illinoisgreenalliance.org/illinois-just-passed-the-clean-and-reliable-grid-act-heres-what-the-building-industry-needs-to-know  

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In this episode of the Building Energy Pod, host Matt welcomes Benny Skelton, founder of Cyclone Energy Group, to discuss the business case and ROI for energy efficiency improvements and sustainable retrofits across various sectors. They explore the challenges and opportunities in commercial, educational, and other types of buildings, highlighting the importance of strategic planning and innovative technologies like heat pumps and retro commissioning. Benny shares insights on funding mechanisms, the role of incentives, and the impact of long-term planning on building sustainability. 

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Keywords 

heating technology, air source heat pump, ground source heat, electric water heating, fossil fuels, development, retrofits, permitting process 

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In this episode, AJ Patton, founder and CEO of 548 Enterprise, discusses his journey in creating sustainable housing solutions and the importance of integrating clean energy into real estate. He shares insights on workforce development, the challenges of achieving high-performance energy efficiency, and the need for collaboration between developers and local governments. AJ emphasizes the significance of community engagement and the role of education in fostering a sustainable future. 

You can learn more about A.J. and his work, as well as the 2025 Emerald Award honorees here: https://www.illinoisgreenalliance.org/20th-annual-illinois-emerald-awards-for-green-building-announced  

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In this episode of the Building Energy Pod, host Matt Watson speaks with Joe Clair, Commercial Vice President at Windfree Solar Co., about his journey in building sustainability, the challenges of retrofitting existing buildings, and the importance of stakeholder engagement. They discuss the significance of identifying low-hanging fruit in energy efficiency, navigating historic buildings, and the role of solar energy in achieving net zero certification. Joe also shares insights on funding opportunities and incentives available for solar projects in Illinois.

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In this episode, Chris Meister, executive director of the Illinois Finance Authority and Climate Bank, discusses the role of the Climate Bank in supporting Illinois' green economy. He highlights the importance of state-level action in sustainability, especially in light of federal uncertainties. The conversation covers various funding mechanisms, successful case studies, and the practical steps for building professionals to access financing for energy efficiency projects. Chris emphasizes the collaborative efforts with local governments and the significance of attracting private capital to enhance community projects. 

For more information on the Climate Bank, visit here.  

For more information on the Small Business Credit Initiative, visit here.  

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In this conversation, Nancy Kohout, a licensed mechanical engineer and senior principal at Smith Group, discusses the critical importance of decarbonization and sustainability in the building industry. She emphasizes the need for strategic long-term planning in retrofitting existing buildings, addressing air leakage, and navigating electrical capacity challenges. Nancy also highlights the role of new technologies, such as geothermal systems, in achieving decarbonization goals. The discussion further explores the significance of collaboration, mentorship, and leadership in fostering a diverse and inclusive engineering community, ultimately envisioning a future where heat is treated as a commodity and sustainability is integrated into all aspects of building design. 

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In this special episode, Brian Imus, Executive Director of Illinois Green Alliance, reflects on his 12-year journey with the organization, discussing the evolution of the green building industry in Illinois, key milestones, and the importance of building a strong network among professionals. He emphasizes the need for collaboration across sectors to achieve the ambitious goal of 100% net zero buildings by 2050, while also addressing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the pursuit of sustainability. 

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