Welcome to our latest blog, where we explore innovative solutions in the energy efficiency industry. We had the pleasure of speaking with Maria Onesto Moran, the founder of Green Home Experts. Maria has been a pioneer in the field from contributions of eco-friendly building materials to energy efficiency measures. Her collaboration with Evolve ShowerStart® Technologies highlights how these products can serve as versatile solutions for various programs aimed at improving energy and water conservation. Let's dive into her story and learn more about her collaboration with Evolve ShowerStart® Technologies.
Interviewer: Tell us about yourself and how you got started in the energy industry.
Maria: I thought I had the next big idea when I started Green Home Experts, which I envisioned as the green version of a Home Depot. We sold eco-friendly building materials and had a green general store and garden center. It was wonderful! We did it for 8 successful years. But in that time, we started distributing energy efficiency measures, and that business took off. Before we knew it, we had more EE work than our showroom and staff could handle. So I closed the showroom at the beginning of 2016. Ever since then, we have focused on providing implementation contractors with product distribution, kitting, and pick and pack services for residential energy efficiency programs.
Interviewer: What an insightful business pivot! Can you tell us a bit about Green Home Experts and your role within the organization?
Maria: Green Home Experts celebrates 18 years in business this year. We run a four-ring circus under our big top: product distribution, kitting, pick and pack services, and workforce development. Our clients are implementation contractors who manage residential programs that rely on a warehouse like us. We support programs of all types: single-family, multi-family, income-eligible, you name it!
Interviewer: And when you’re not working, what are your favorite hobbies or activities?
Maria: My husband and I are raising three boys, ages 9, 12, and 14. Cheering for them on the sidelines and chauffeuring them around take up most of our free time. My favorite hobbies are gardening and kickboxing. They’re both great for my mental health in very different ways!
ShowerStart® Technology + GHE Collaboration
Interviewer: Let’s talk about Evolve ShowerStart® technologies. What do you think sets ShowerStart® apart from other water-saving technologies?
Maria: ShowerStart® technology is unique because it doesn’t rely solely on low-flow showerheads to save water. Instead, it focuses on reducing the waste that occurs while waiting for hot water. By temporarily pausing the flow once the water reaches a comfortable temperature, it prevents unnecessary waste without affecting the shower experience. This makes it compatible with any showerhead and provides savings even when energy-efficient models are already installed.
Interviewer: Why do you believe it’s important for program teams to be aware of Evolve and ShowerStart® products?
Maria: Utility and efficiency program teams need to be aware of these products because they offer a complementary and innovative approach to water and energy savings. Many programs focus on installing low-flow showerheads, but ShowerStart® goes a step further by addressing behavioral waste. Even with energy-efficient showerheads, water is often wasted while waiting for it to heat up. ShowerStart® solves this problem by automatically pausing the flow when the desired temperature is reached, allowing users to step in when ready without letting hot water run unused. This adds a new layer of savings beyond traditional low-flow solutions and provides additional energy conservation by reducing hot water demand. By integrating this technology into efficiency programs, utilities can achieve greater savings, enhance customer satisfaction, and meet conservation goals more effectively.
Interviewer: What are some effective ways to promote these products?
Maria:
- Utility Marketplace Inclusion: Offer ShowerStart® devices through utility-sponsored online marketplaces to reach engaged, energy-conscious consumers.
- Direct-to-Customer Programs: Include the technology in energy efficiency kit distributions to maximize adoption.
- Educational Campaigns: Use email marketing, social media, and utility newsletters to inform customers about the benefits of reducing hot water waste.
- Partnerships with Contractors & Plumbers: Train industry professionals to recommend ShowerStart® during water heater installations or plumbing upgrades.
- Incentives & Rebates: Offer discounts or rebates through efficiency programs to encourage participation.
Evolve ShowerStart® Technologies offers unique and effective solutions for reducing water and energy waste. By integrating these products into efficiency programs, utilities can achieve greater savings and enhance customer satisfaction. Don't miss our upcoming webinar where we'll dive deeper into the benefits of ShowerStart® products.
