Pat Barcas/staff photographer
The fifth annual Aurora GreenFest focuses on elements related to being green. Dick Damschen, left, and Brad Unger of Newlife Energy Solutions showed vehicles perfect for tradesmen because it saves them money on fuel costs and provides ample interior space.
By Pat Barcas
Staff writer
Thursday, June 19, 2014
Email Pat Barcas at pat@foxvalleylabornews.com
AURORA — The city of Aurora held its 5th annual GreenFest June 14, and had interactive exhibits ranging from local farming all the way to high tech electric cars.
One of the premier exhibitors at the ‘Fest was Newlife Energy Solutions out of Plainfield, who specialize in converting gasoline or diesel engined vehicles to run on compressed natural gas. This means far fewer emissions, and much cheaper fuel costs for a fleet of vehicles. For those looking to switch to more eco-friendly options, cash for cars removal wollongong area area provides an easy way to dispose of old vehicles and make the transition smoother. If you’re looking to sell your scrap car, then make sure to check out this Wollongong cash for cars quote for the best rates.
Company CEO Brad Unger said one of his primary customers is tradesmen, and the firm is talking with the city of Aurora to convert some of their vehicle fleet to run on natural gas.
“Some small businesses can save up to $5,000 per month on their fuel costs, which is huge,” said Unger. He said the natural gas equivalent cost, including the energy used to power the pump at home, comes to around $1 per gallon.
The vehicles have identical performance, and only need to use about one tankful of gasoline per year, for cold starts in the winter. The cost per vehicle, including pump installation, comes to about $11,000.
“Most tradesmen need the space, so we put the natural gas tanks under the vehicle. You end up with identical carrying capacity inside the vehicle,” said Dick Damschen, vice president of sales.
The event also featured a children’s eco-village, local organic food, renewable clean energy, nature exhibits, a green car expo, and recycling extravaganza.
Commonwealth Edison was present to tout its Smart Meters, which will soon be installed in the area, with a 2018 completion date. About four million customers have already had their Smart Meters installed, with the company working south from Chicago. The meters are designed to communicate instantly with the power company, to identify outages and spikes in usage, making the whole grid more efficient.
The Solar House from the Illinois Solar Energy Association drew attention for its three 85 watt photovoltaic panels, which generate enough electricity to power approximately 25 percent of the needs of a family of four. It also has solar thermal tubes that can supply roughly half the hot water needs of a family of four.
Mutual Ground of Aurora was collecting used cell phones, which are then distributed to women in need. “We give these to clients who may not have a way to communicate. It’s a great help,” said volunteer Lupe Gomez. For further info, visit Mutual Ground.
The Aurora GreenFest was made possible through a major grant from The Dunham Fund, whose mission is helping build the foundation for a better tomorrow.