Staff Spotlight

Community Energy Project is proud to provide a variety of direct, in-homes services and educational workshops, and participate in important advocacy work. Behind all of these vital efforts is a team of vibrant, multifaceted, and hardworking individuals. We are excited to introduce the CEP Staff Spotlight, a series dedicated to the people who make everything we do possible. Today’s spotlight shines on CEP’s In-Homes Program Director, Jim Plantico.

“Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

1. Describe your role at CEP and what makes you passionate about your position.

I am the In-Homes Program Director at Community Energy Project. The In-Homes team manages the direct installation work fulfilled by Community Energy Project funding initiatives. I am passionate about this position on three levels: First, I work with great people who drive me to work harder in support of them; second, the work we do has a direct tangible impact on the clients we serve; and third, we provide employment for individuals in traditionally underserved communities.

2. Describe your work/relevant personal background and how this empowers you at CEP.

Prior to CEP, I was a general contractor specializing in energy efficient remodeling to help folks who could afford my services, make their homes more comfortable and save money on their energy use. At CEP, I now use my expertise in energy efficiency to help guide the In-Homes team to achieve the same results I found as a contractor for people that need our services the most. Lower energy bills and basic home comfort should not be a luxury afforded to only those with means.

3. Describe the program/department you run and why it is important to CEP/the community you serve.

The In-Homes department is responsible for making the energy efficiency improvements in our client’s homes. This has a direct and meaningful impact. Too often I have seen people living in one room of their house trying to save on their energy bills. Many of our clients have achieved the “American dream” of owning a home only to be crushed by the costs of maintaining that home. Many of our clients are generational households with three or more generations living under one roof.

Often the homes we serve are the first homes on the block to have air conditioning or a smart thermostat. We take time explaining these new technologies. The best service to our clients is knowing the work we do will reduce the home’s energy burden and improve the comfort and safety for all those inside the home.

4. What is a problem that the Portland community faces and how is your team addressing the issue?

We will not achieve our net-zero goals if we do not fund and assist lower income households. Many of our clients are still heating their homes with home heating oil, 40 to 50 years after most other homes have switched to more efficient, less expensive energy sources. By switching these clients to electric heat pumps, our success ripples out into the community. First, we reduce the carbon footprint of the home. Second, we hire primarily BIPOC workers who by means of employment, lift others by simply spending their wage within the community. Third, we provide, often to an aging population wanting to live their remaining days with dignity, a safe, comfortable, and efficient home.

 5. What makes CEP unique in addressing climate change?

CEP has committed to electrification for the homes we serve through a variety of funding sources. By replacing mechanical equipment and water heaters that use fossil fuels such as heating oil and natural gas with efficient electrical equipment, we are reducing our carbon footprint. As our electrical grid trends more towards renewables, solar and battery backup, our investment in electrification means our clients’ houses will have an even smaller carbon footprint in the future.

6.What is your favorite hobby?

Limiting food waste by cooking great food. For me, it is my daily reflection on culture, creativity, and consumption.