Fairfax County is celebrating Energy Efficiency Week from October 1 to 7, encouraging residents, businesses and community organizations to adopt simple, cost-saving practices that reduce energy waste and lower monthly utility bills.
Improving energy efficiency does not require major renovations, according to the county. Practical upgrades such as LED lighting, better insulation, high-efficiency HVAC systems and heat pump technologies can make a big difference.
The county offers a range of programs to help, including Fairfax Energy Compass for homeowners, the Energy Conservation Assistance Program for nonprofits, the Sustain Fairfax Challenge, Weatherization Assistance for qualifying households, and resources for businesses through Green Business Partners.
Fairfax County said it has already reduced electricity use in government operations by 13% since 2018 and expanded its portfolio to 49 LEED-certified buildings. During Energy Efficiency Week, the community is encouraged to explore available tools and take meaningful steps toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.
As colder weather approaches, the county is also urging homeowners to prepare their homes and keep energy costs under control. A quick, do-it-yourself energy audit can reveal simple fixes, such as sealing air leaks around doors, windows and outlets, adding insulation in attics, basements and exterior walls, replacing furnace filters monthly, and using heat wisely by opening shades during the day and closing them at night.
Fairfax Energy Compass offers free guidance to help homeowners identify practical upgrades, compare options, and find available incentives and qualified contractors.
In other county environmental news, the Virginia State Corporation Commission will hold a local public hearing in Fairfax County on the proposed merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy. The hearing is set for Oct. 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Fairfax County Government Center Board Auditorium, where the public can offer testimony on the proposed transaction and its potential effect on Dominion Energy Virginia customers.
The county is also forming an Environmental Commission, a 15-member body that will make recommendations on policies that protect and enhance the natural environment. Residents interested in serving are asked to contact their District Supervisor by October 9.
Fairfax County is also inviting residents to Green Fairfax, a free half-day summit hosted by Providence District Supervisor Dalia Palchik on Monday, Oct. 19 from 2 to 6:30 p.m. at MITRE Building 4 in McLean. The event focuses on where sustainability and urbanization meet, with a networking happy hour to follow speakers and panels. Registration is required.
The Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions will hold its 10th annual Climate Crisis Forum on Thursday, Oct. 22 from 6:15 to 8:45 p.m. at George Mason University's Mason Square campus in Arlington, examining the public health consequences of extreme heat and local strategies to address it.