Tuesday, Ampride/Crookston Fuel took part in an energy evaluation. University of Minnesota, Crookston graduate Chris Waltz, now of the Green Conservation Corporation (Greencorps) had contacted Energy Smart to conduct the energy audit of the gas station, convenience store and bulk fuel provider at Crookston's southern edge. Prior to evaluating Ampride, Energy Smart conducted a similar visit Tuesday to RiverView Health.
Energy Smart is a company affiliated with the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. Energy Smart doesn't sell products, they simply evaluate the amount of energy a business wastes and help them to lessen their geological footprint.
"We sell energy efficiency," said Jill Curran of Energy Smart, who conducted Tuesday's audits.
Curran found ways that Ampride could improve as well as finding practices they implement that work well to conserve energy.
"We've made some changes, but she pointed out stuff we haven't done," said Ampride Manager Wayne Melbye. Ampride had recieved an energy audit about a year and a half ago and they made the changes that were suggested to them at that time.
This year it looks as if Ampride will need to change out their current lights for more efficient bulbs with lower watts and replace some part of their faucets that use less water. These are easy changes that will have a good, long-lasting impact, Curran said.
