Ames, IA

Ames, IA conducts successful trial of biodiesel trucks for road maintenance tasks

Ames worked with Optimus Technologies to outfit five dump trucks with Vector Systems from Optimus Technologies. This system uses standard diesel to start the engine and 100% biodiesel for vehicle operation. The yearlong pilot found the system performed well during winter storms and freezing temperatures. Biodiesel trucks reduced the city's carbon emissions by 110 metric tons during the pilot.

AI

Ames, IA

United States

Ames, IA conducts virtual home energy audits to help residents reduce bills during COVID-19

Ames Electrical Services began its virtual auditing service at the outset of the pandemic. Utility customers completed a request form and scheduled appointments with The Energy Group. Participating residents walked auditors through their homes. Auditors used request form information, billing data, and visual assessments to recommend energy-saving changes. The city offered two free LED bulbs to each participant in the program's first month.

AI

Ames, IA

United States

Ames, IA involves local residents in emissions reduction with SunSmart Ames community solar farm

The city-built 2-megawatt farm allowed Ames Electric Services customers to purchase shares of solar energy. Each $300 share represents a half-panel that produces 175 kilowatts of zero-emission energy. Ames Electric Services issues a monthly bill credit for each share over a 20-year customer contract. City officials estimated the farm can power 440 homes and reduce carbon emissions by 57,000 tons over two decades. Construction began on the farm after 75% of shares were sold.

AI

Ames, IA

United States