Description

Arkansas Valley residents can visit some of the region’s most sustainable homes and learn to save money by using less energy at the sixth annual Ark Valley Green Homes Tour on September 21.

The free tour kicks off at the Salida Farmers Market (Alpine Park at 5th and E Street) Saturday, September 21, from 9 a.m. until noon. Those interested can pick up tour maps at sponsor New Energy Colorado’s booth. Even those not going on the tour can learn a lot from the energy efficiency measures for homeowners that will be on display, along with information about government and utility incentives to lower the costs of green upgrades. 

Ark Valley Energy Future and Greater Arkansas River Nature Association are co-sponsoring the tour. Companies contributing to the booth and tour include Earth Sky Architecture, Green Edge Design, Colorado Mountain Solar and Peak Solar. After learning about home efficiency at the market, interested residents can check out four homes in the Salida area from 9 a.m. until noon to learn about energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable living practices.

The homes include:

- An Accessory Dwelling Unit, all-electric construction sponsored by You by Earth Sky Architecture

-A passive solar home with Xeriscaping which uses little water for beautiful landscaping

-A home powered by solar energy sponsored by Colorado Mountain Solar

- A Tiny Home showing what can be done in little space. 

New Energy Colorado works to engage citizens in shaping the future by providing education about how our energy system and utilities function today, and what changes are needed to pave the way for a future dominated by energy efficiency, renewable energy and a smart grid. For 29 years, the non-profit has sponsored a green homes tour in metro Denver.