November/December 2007

2008 Trade Ally News

Energy Trust is always looking for ways to improve service and responsiveness to our trade allies. One current project is to centralize some trade ally support at Energy Trust, and make it easier for contractors to participate in multiple Energy Trust programs. The groundwork for this improvement is underway, and you’ll see changes throughout 2008.

New trade ally coordinator hired
We have hired a trade ally coordinator to assist Tom Beverly at Energy Trust central. Leana Mathews is currently learning her new job. Leana will be a central point of contact and administrator for trade ally records. This function previously was provided by coordinators in each of our programs, leading to confusion regarding the best contacts for program questions. The Energy Trust trade ally coordinator will answer general Energy Trust questions, provide referrals throughout our programs, verify insurance levels and licenses, and arrange training sessions and other events. Individual program trade ally coordinators will focus on program-specific training, on-site meetings and other support specific to their programs. Please see the Trade Ally Coordinators article to read about each program trade ally coordinator.

Central trade ally agreement developed
Also new for 2008, we are developing an Central trade ally agreement that will allow contractors to sign up for multiple Energy Trust programs using a single form. Currently, contractors are required to fill out separate forms for each program in which they participate. This procedure led to repeating information on several forms. The Central agreement will spell out overall requirements for participating in Energy Trust programs. This Central form will be supplemented by terms and conditions documents specific to each program.

During the first quarter of 2008, trade allies participating in the Home Energy Solutions - Existing Homes program will need to re-enroll using the new form. They will also have the opportunity to update their information and enroll with other Energy Trust programs. The re-enrollment process for Existing Homes trade allies will be completed by March 1, 2008. See the Home Energy Solutions program update for more information.

Re-enrollment for other programs will begin in the second quarter of 2008. Trade allies already participating with other Energy Trust programs will continue to operate under existing agreements. As a part of enrollment, trade allies will receive a welcome packet from each program in which they participate, a complete list of helpful contact information, and program-specific guidelines. Both existing and new trade allies can also arrange for trainings on forms, program requirements, incentives and processes.

Expect to hear from Energy Trust as we progress through these improvements. As always, our goal is to provide better support and communications for existing and new trade allies.

If you have questions for feedback about our Trade Ally Network, contact at 503-445-7637. 

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