Energy Efficient Grant For Watkins Glen

The Watkins Glen Village Hall willbecome more energy efficient thanks to a $45,000 state grant announcedtoday by State Senator George H. Winner, Jr. (R-C-I, Elmira).“Attention to energy efficiency is one of the most effective andimmediate ways that we can help reduce the cost of government,” saidWinner. “I’m pleased that the village of Watkins Glen will benefit fromthis state assistance.”Winner said that the grant is provided from Petroleum OverchargeRestitution (POCR) funds established from proceeds of court settlementsrelating to major oil company violations of federal price controls in the1970’s and ‘80s. The New York Power Authority administers the funding.The Watkins Glen Village Hall is currently heated by 40-year-oldsteam radiators controlled by a single, non-programmable thermostat.Window and split system heating and cooling units have been added to threerooms to help better control the space temperature, but an energy auditperformed by the Power Authority found that the heat is still inefficientlydispersed. Winner said that the grant will be used by the village toinstall new thermally efficient windows and to insulate the building wallsto prevent heat loss. New fluorescent lighting will also replace oldincandescent bulbs to further reduce energy costs while improving areabrightness.The Power Authority estimated that when all of the measuresrecommended in its energy audit are completed, the village can reduceenergy expenses by nearly $5,000 annually.The Watkins Glen Village Hall was constructed in 1929. It providesoffice space to the village clerk, public works, police and building codedepartments on the first and second floors. The building also houses acourt room and a large public meeting area. The entire structure, includingthe basement, encompasses approximately 18,000 square feet of space.