Maureen Sertich, North American Sustainability Lead for Whirlpool, will talk about the company’s ReNEWW project and efforts to improve energy and environmental performance in its products and operations.
In her role at Whirlpool, Sertich manages the sustainability initiatives for products under the Amana, Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, and Jenn-Aire Brands. Previously, she developed sustainability standards for products in the building industry, managed a university’s sustainability program, provided sustainability and risk assessment services for large industrial and commercial clients, and managed hazardous waste remediation projects.
Also on the agenda is Andy Levin of Levin Energy Partners and Lean & Green Michigan, who will talk about his firm’s work to develop PACE financing in Michigan. PACE financing allows longer payback periods with lower annual amortization and better terms, making many energy projects financeable that otherwise would not be. A PACE district allows a property owner to use the property tax mechanism to finance energy improvements. The property owner voluntarily takes on a Special Assessment, which it pays off as part of its property tax bill. A fundamentally different arrangement than a traditional bank loan, Levin believes the financing package can transform an energy efficiency or renewable project from an engineer’s great idea that a company CFO will not approve into a clear bottom line winner for the company.
Lunch by Bartertown.
Seating is limited. RSVP online by Friday, December 5.
Source: WMSBF