Four Corners Office For Resource Efficiency

The Clean Transportation Program promotes the adoption of zero-emission vehicles (EVs) and supports the expansion of EV charging infrastructure. The program assists residents and businesses in transitioning to EVs, drives the development of charging networks, and raises public awareness of the benefits of clean transportation. Additionally, it helps local entities access funding sources and grants to further advance clean transportation options. This initiative reduces carbon emissions, improves air quality, and contributes to a more sustainable future. In 2024 4CORE held 30 education and outreach events and 6 EV Ride and Drive, and awarded 25 eBikes to income qualified residents over the age of 55 in our local community.

The Green Business Program helps local businesses adopt sustainable practices and achieve Green Business Certification. It guides businesses through the certification process, offers energy audits, and provides tailored recommendations for improving energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. The program also supplies educational resources to support the integration of eco-friendly practices into daily operations, fostering a community-wide commitment to sustainability and strengthening the long-term viability of local businesses. For 2024 4CORE partnered with 22 organizations, ranging from non-profits, regional banks, to small and medium sized local businesses. Of the 22 partnerships, 4 organizations reported an annual reduction in their electricity bill of 54,156 kWh, equivalent to the electricity usage of 50 average households.

4COREs Renewable Energy Programs focus on expanding access to solar energy and supporting sustainable practices through strategic partnerships. In collaboration with LPEA and Shaw Solar, the Project SunShare initiative provides affordable rooftop solar installations for income-qualified homeowners. Additionally, the Sunnyside Community Solar Program which offers solar energy access to income qualifited individuals who are unable to install rooftop solar systems. In 2024 in partnership with the local utility company, 4CORE subscribed 312 households to access the solar bank representing 25% of the total projects electricity capacity. Those 312 housholds had an energy savings of 2321 MWh, or approximately $348,000 ($1,100 per household) per year based on the average residential electricity rate in Colorado.

The Water Conservation Program includes the Rainwater Harvesting Program, in partnership with Rainwater Solutions, and Laundry to Landscapes in partnership with La Plata County explores the reuse of rain and gray water for landscaping and irrigation.The Rainwater Harvesting Program promotes the use of rainwater barrels for sustainable water collection. In 2024 4CORE sold 99 rain barrels which collected 94,050 gallons of water. By diverting stormwater runoff it is then utilized in irrigation of gardens and landscaping. Additionally this slowdown of stormwater allows this precious resource in the arid Southwest region to soak into the ground and replenish local groundwater supplies. The Laundry to Landscape Program encourages the use of graywater from washing machines for irrigation. By rerouting water from washing machines to irrigate gardens, this initiative conserves fresh water, reduces water bills, and supports sustainable landscaping practices.