History
How we got started
The Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance was founded in 2009 by Andy Holzhauser with the support of local foundations and governments. Inspired by the work of the Cambridge Energy Alliance, Andy formed the idea of a regional energy efficiency non-profit and presented it to members of the Mayor’s Young Professional Kitchen Cabinet. The Energy Alliance concept became reality with initial funding from the Greater Cincinnati Foundation and the Duke Energy Foundation.
Creating change through investment
The Energy Alliance leveraged initial investment to bring together energy efficiency funding from Hamilton County, the City of Cincinnati, Boone County, the City of Florence, Kenton County, the City of Covington, and Campbell County.
This allowed the Energy Alliance to build a program that:
- Guides residents through the energy improvement process
- Provides financing to help homeowners reduce energy waste in their home
- Creates green jobs for home energy professionals
$17 Million Award
In April 2010, the Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance was one of 25 organizations nationwide awarded a competitive “Better Buildings” grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The $17 million award will help the Energy Alliance expand its offerings to homeowners and non-profits in Greater Cincinnati and develop programs to help commercial and multi-family buildings reduce their energy waste. .
