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Tag: San Jose Energy Audit Ordinance

  • Commercial Energy Audit: A Significant Step Towards a Sustainable Business

    Commercial Energy Audit: A Significant Step Towards a Sustainable Business

    I. Introduction

    In today’s global economy, the concept of sustainability has transcended mere buzzword status to become a crucial operational strategy for businesses. At the forefront of this shift is the adoption of practices such as the Commercial Energy Audit. This systematic process not only enhances energy efficiency but also integrates sustainable business practices into the corporate ethos, thereby fostering long-term economic and environmental benefits.

    Energy efficiency is no longer an optional luxury but a fundamental aspect of successful business operations. It directly influences operational costs, global competitiveness, and corporate reputation. Moreover, in the context of increasing regulatory pressures and consumer demand for green products, it is clear why energy efficiency has become a strategic imperative. The relevance of commercial energy audits today cannot be overstated, given their role in helping businesses navigate the complexities of energy management while aligning with broader Corporate Sustainability Strategies. 

    II. Understanding Commercial Energy Audit

    What exactly is a Commercial Energy Audit? It is a comprehensive assessment aimed at understanding how a business consumes energy. The audit identifies inefficiencies and areas for improvement, providing a detailed roadmap for energy management tailored to the specific needs of the business. 

    The process typically involves several key steps:

    • Preliminary Energy Use Analysis: This involves collecting and analyzing past energy bills to understand baseline energy consumption patterns.
    • Site Survey: A physical inspection of the facilities to observe energy consumption practices and to identify any immediate areas for improvement.
    • Data Collection and Monitoring: Usage data from HVAC systems, lighting, insulation, and other energy-consuming processes is collected through tools like commercial energy auditing software.
    • Analysis and Report Generation: The data collected is analyzed to pinpoint inefficiencies and propose corrective actions. The final deliverable is an energy audit report that outlines findings, recommendations, and potential savings.

    For those interested in the specifics of the tools used, resources like the Department of Energy’s guidelines on energy audits can provide deeper insights.

    III. Types of Commercial Energy Audits

    The scope and depth of an energy audit can vary based on the business’s specific needs, size, and sector. The main types include:

    • Walk-through Audits: These are quick assessments, usually limited to a visual inspection of the premises and a review of past energy bills. While not deeply technical, they are useful for identifying obvious inefficiencies and low-hanging fruits.
    • Detailed Energy Audits: These provide a more comprehensive analysis. They involve detailed measurements and calculations to quantify energy usages and efficiencies. This type is more technical and requires sophisticated equipment and expertise.
    • Investment-Grade Audits: Used primarily when significant capital investment decisions in energy efficiency are considered. These audits are extremely detailed and are designed to provide the data necessary for financial decision-making and to secure financing. 

    IV. Benefits of a Commercial Energy Audit

    The benefits of conducting a business energy audit are manifold:

    • Cost Efficiency: Primarily, audits lead to direct cost savings by identifying ways to reduce energy consumption and thus lower energy bills.
    • Environmental Impact: By reducing energy use, businesses lower their greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global efforts against climate change.
    • Enhanced Sustainability: Audits are a critical part of sustainable business practices, helping businesses make informed decisions that align with environmental goals.
    • Compliance and Reputation: Many regions have stringent energy regulations. Compliance not only avoids penalties but can enhance the business’s market reputation, appealing to eco-conscious consumers.

    V. The Role of Commercial Energy Audits in Sustainability

    Integrating energy audits into Corporate Sustainability Strategies provides a systematic approach to reducing environmental impact while improving efficiency and profitability. These audits offer detailed insights that can drive significant strategic shifts, from upgrading systems to adopting completely new technologies like renewable energy sources. 

    The positive ripple effects of regular energy audits include stronger compliance with international environmental standards, improved stakeholder confidence, and enhanced corporate image. Businesses seen as responsible environmental stewards are often preferred by customers, investors, and partners.

    VI. How to Prepare for a Commercial Energy Audit

    Effective preparation can significantly enhance the value derived from an energy audit:

    • Documentation Gathering: Compile all relevant documentation, including utility bills, equipment inventories, and operational data. This preparation helps in accurate baseline setting.
    • Engaging Stakeholders: Ensure that facility managers, financial officers, and other key personnel are involved in the process. Their insights will facilitate a more comprehensive audit.
    • Follow-up Strategy: Post-audit, prioritize the implementation of recommendations based on their impact and feasibility. Regular reviews should be scheduled to assess progress and recalibrate plans as necessary.

    VII. Conclusion

    A Commercial Energy Audit represents a strategic investment in the future of any business aiming for long-term sustainability. The process not only uncovers critical insights into energy consumption but also aligns business operations with global sustainability goals.

    In an increasingly eco-conscious market, the decision to conduct an energy audit could be pivotal. It is an affirmation of a business’s commitment to operational excellence and environmental responsibility.

    Call to Action: If you’re ready to take a significant step towards sustainability and operational efficiency, consider integrating a commercial energy audit into your business strategy. Start by consulting with energy professionals and exploring platforms like the Energy Star Guidelines for Energy Management which can provide further direction and resources.

    VertPro.com serves as a resourceful platform for property owners and managers seeking to enhance their buildings’ energy efficiency. The site offers a range of services, including Commercial Energy Audits, Benchmark Compliance consultancy, and a Construction Marketplace. At the heart of VertPro® is a suite of SaaS technology-based solutions designed to assist in navigating the complexities of Energy Benchmarking and Energy Audits/RCx Plus, while ensuring adherence to over 60 Energy Benchmarking and Energy Efficiency Laws across the country.

    For those looking to improve their property’s energy usage and operational value, VertPro.com provides a diverse array of tools and information. The site aims to facilitate a better understanding of energy efficiency practices and legislation, helping building owners and property managers make informed decisions about their energy strategies while complying with all energy ordinances and laws.

  • San Jose’s Path to Sustainability: The Role of Conservation in Building

    San Jose’s Path to Sustainability: The Role of Conservation in Building

    Introduction 

    In the bustling heart of Silicon Valley, where innovation is the norm and technological advancement is a way of life, San Jose emerges as a beacon of sustainability and environmental consciousness. As the global community faces the mounting threats of climate change, resource depletion, and urbanization, cities like San Jose embrace a critical responsibility—leading the charge in mitigating these challenges through sustainable practices. At the forefront of this movement lies the integral role of conservation in a building—a pivotal approach that reduces energy consumption, curtails greenhouse gas emissions, and paves the way for resilient urban ecosystems.

    I. Understanding Building Sustainability

    The notion of building sustainability encompasses a profound shift in the way we approach urban development. Beyond erecting structures for mere functionality, it entails a holistic consideration of environmental, economic, and social impacts. From reducing carbon footprints to enhancing occupant well-being, building sustainability is a multidimensional concept that recognizes the symbiotic relationship between urban infrastructure and our planet. By weaving together eco-friendly design, energy efficiency, and social inclusivity, cities like San Jose foster a harmonious balance between human progress and ecological preservation. 

    II. San Jose’s Sustainability Initiatives

    Nestled within the technological epicenter of Silicon Valley, San Jose’s reputation as an innovation hub is matched only by its commitment to sustainability. The city stands as a testament to proactive governance and visionary leadership, embracing ambitious sustainability initiatives. San Jose has set its sights on reducing greenhouse gas emissions to unprecedented levels, aligning its trajectory with global efforts to mitigate climate change. These initiatives extend beyond the conventional, demonstrating that sustainable practices are not only attainable but essential for urban longevity.  

    Through projects like the San Jose Clean Energy initiative, the city has boldly taken steps to transition to renewable energy sources. By offering residents and businesses access to clean, affordable energy, San Jose accelerates the shift towards a carbon-neutral future. The city’s ambitious goals are underscored by its emphasis on equitable development, ensuring that the benefits of sustainability reach all corners of the community.

    III. Energy Conservation Measures in Buildings 

    Building Energy Conservation

    Within the fabric of building sustainability, energy conservation emerges as a cornerstone principle. San Jose embraces a multifaceted approach to energy efficiency, weaving together design innovation, resource management, and technological integration. The city’s commitment to energy-efficient building design is exemplified by its emphasis on proper insulation, high-performance windows, and optimal building orientation. These considerations not only reduce the demand for heating and cooling but also translate to tangible energy savings and enhanced comfort for occupants.  

    The Adobe World Headquarters stands as a testament to the power of energy-efficient design. Utilizing a comprehensive strategy that includes solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and advanced heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, the headquarters dramatically minimizes its environmental impact. The benefits extend beyond energy savings, influencing corporate culture and elevating employee well-being. This illustrates that energy conservation isn’t just a technical necessity; it’s a transformative force that shapes the way we inhabit our built environments.

    IV. Role of Technology in Sustainable Building

    In the digital age, technology has emerged as a linchpin in the quest for sustainable urbanization. San Jose, renowned for its technological prowess, harnesses innovation to enhance its sustainability endeavors. The concept of smart buildings takes center stage, where sophisticated systems integrate data and automation to optimize resource utilization. By tracking occupancy patterns, adjusting lighting and climate control, and minimizing energy waste, these intelligent systems epitomize the synergy between technology and sustainability.

    Downtown San Jose’s Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) Center serves as a living embodiment of technology’s role in sustainable building. The center employs real-time data analysis to fine-tune energy consumption, curbing waste while maintaining optimal working conditions. Such applications underscore the transformative potential of technology—a bridge between human aspirations and ecological stewardship. By synergizing technology with sustainable practices, San Jose establishes itself as a pioneer in the art of urban sustainability.

    V. Collaborative Partnerships and Community Engagement

    In the tapestry of sustainability, collaboration and community engagement weave threads of social responsibility and shared ownership. San Jose recognizes that the journey towards sustainability is a collective endeavor that necessitates the active participation of government bodies, businesses, and individuals. The city’s proactive engagement initiatives extend beyond policy mandates, nurturing a culture of sustainability that permeates everyday life.  

    The partnership between San Jose State University and the city exemplifies this communal commitment. Through joint projects such as installing solar panels on campus buildings and promoting sustainable transportation alternatives, the partnership demonstrates the far-reaching impact of collaboration. The integration of sustainable practices within the academic sphere not only shapes future leaders but radiates positive influences that extend to the city and beyond.

    VII. Sustainable Transportation and Urban Planning

    The canvas of sustainability extends beyond buildings to encompass the intricate network of urban spaces. San Jose recognizes that sustainable transportation and urban planning are integral elements in the quest for a harmonious urban ecosystem. By prioritizing public transit, cycling infrastructure, and walkable neighborhoods, the city takes significant strides in reducing the ecological footprint of transportation.  

    The San Jose Diridon Station Area Plan stands as an embodiment of visionary urban planning. Transforming the area around the central train station into a hub of sustainable activity, the plan emphasizes mixed-use development, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and efficient public transportation. This transformative vision seamlessly integrates mobility, sustainability, and urban vibrancy, setting a precedent for urban centers worldwide. 

    VII. Green Building Certifications and Incentives

    The pursuit of building sustainability is fortified by standardized frameworks such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. San Jose understands that these certifications serve as guideposts, aligning the goals of sustainable building with measurable benchmarks. To catalyze progress, the city offers incentives that sweeten the deal for developers who embrace green building practices.  

    The incentives go beyond fiscal benefits, acting as a testament to San Jose’s commitment to sustainability. Expedited permitting processes, fee reductions, and other incentives are tangible manifestations of the city’s determination to create an environment where responsible building is not only admired but actively rewarded.

    VIII. Overcoming Challenges and Future Outlook 

    Overcoming Challenges in Building Sustainability

    The path to building sustainability is not devoid of challenges. From upfront costs to the intricacies of retrofitting existing structures, San Jose encounters obstacles that demand innovative solutions. The city’s approach, however, remains unyielding. By nurturing a culture of adaptability and resilience, San Jose positions itself to conquer these challenges, emerging as a vanguard of sustainable urban development.  

    Looking ahead, San Jose’s future shines with promise. Its endeavors serve as a wellspring of inspiration for cities worldwide, offering a blueprint to navigate the challenges of urbanization and environmental stewardship. As technology evolves and awareness deepens, the lessons imparted by San Jose’s journey will echo across the globe, fostering a global movement towards sustainable, thriving cities.

    VIII. The Global Impact of Local Efforts

    The resonance of San Jose’s commitment to sustainability extends far beyond its city limits. In an interconnected world, the actions of one city ripple across continents. San Jose’s triumphs and challenges serve as a guide, a source of learning and adaptation for cities grappling with similar issues. By sharing knowledge, experiences, and insights, cities worldwide can emulate San Jose’s model, transforming their urban landscapes into showcases of sustainable progress.

    Conclusion 

    San Jose’s odyssey towards sustainability embodies the fusion of vision, collaboration, and conscious action. Through the integration of energy conservation in building design, the symbiosis of technology and eco-consciousness, the promotion of sustainable transportation, and the cultivation of a united community, the city crafts a roadmap towards a greener future. As San Jose continues to lead by example, it beckons individuals, corporations, and governments to unite in constructing not only structures but also a legacy—a thriving, harmonious world where conservation in building plants the seeds of a flourishing tomorrow. 

    Elevate your property’s energy efficiency through VertPro® Upgrades, where we not only specialize in Commercial Energy Audit and Benchmark Compliance consultancy but also offer the transformative service of Commercial Roofing through our Construction Marketplace. 

    As the trusted leader in this field, VertPro empowers Building Owners & Property Managers nationwide with innovative SaaS technology-based solutions. From Energy Benchmarking to Energy Audits/RCx Plus, our comprehensive approach ensures adherence to over 50 Energy Benchmarking & Energy Efficiency Laws.  

    Don’t miss the chance to maximize your energy potential and property value – explore VertPro.com’s integrated solutions today! 

  • San Jose Energy Audit Ordinance

    San Jose Energy Audit Ordinance

    San Jose’s Additional Energy Requirement

    The past few years San Jose has been busy developing their city’s Energy programs.
    Like other cities, San Jose began with an annual Energy Benchmark program and then added on an Audit program. On May 14, 2021, the city of San Jose announced that     Ordinance No. 30550 aka the San Jose Energy Audit Ordinance was now in effect. But what exactly does this mean for property owners and managers in San Jose?

    Beginning 2023 and 2024, San Jose property owners must prove that their building is
    either energy and water-efficient or has been improving annually through the
    annual Energy Benchmarking. Based on your building’s performance, you will
    either need to file a Performance Verification Report and/or an Energy Audit
    and Retro-Commissioning report by your assigned deadline. Deadlines are
    determined by property Gross Floor Area (GFA sq. ft.) and the last digit of its
    assigned Santa Clara County Tax Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN):

    Properties
    50,000+ sq. ft.

    Last
    Digit of APN

    First
    Deadline

    Subsequent
    Deadlines

    0

    May
    1, 2023

    Every
    five years thereafter

    1

    2

    May
    1, 2024

    3

    4

    May
    1, 2025

    5

    6

    May
    1, 2026

    7

    8

    May
    1, 2027

    9

    Properties
    20,000 sq. ft. – 49,999 sq. ft.

    Last
    Digit of APN

    First
    Deadline

    Subsequent
    Deadlines

    0

    May
    1, 2024

    Every
    five years thereafter

    1

    2

    May
    1, 2025

    3

    4

    May
    1, 2026

    5

    6

    May
    1, 2027

    7

    8

    May
    1, 2028

    9

    Property owners looking to file a Performance Verification Report must demonstrate and
    provide sufficient evidence that the building meets one of the following
    requirements:

    • A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy or a Certificate
    of Occupancy to prove the property is new and has been occupied for less than five years from its first filing deadline

    • A California Licensed Professional (e.g., engineer,
    architect, or qualified Auditor or Retro-Commissioning Professional) has determined that the property has achieved one or more Energy and Water standards each for a minimum of two out of three calendar years prior to their filing deadline. These standards are:

    o ENERGY STAR® and US EPA Water Scores:

    § Received a score of 75 or higher from the US EPA

    § Score has improved by 15 points or more relative to its performance during the baseline year

    o Weather normalized site Energy Use Intensity (EUI) and
    Water Use Intensity:

    § Site EUI and/or Water Use Intensity per the Benchmarking Tool calculations is 25% below the calculated mean for its given property type

    § Site EUI and/or Water Use Intensity has dropped by at least 15% relative to its performance during the baseline year

     

    If you can prove that your San Jose building has met both one Energy and one Water standard, you will only need to file a Performance Verification Report before the filing deadline. Otherwise, a Performance Verification Report must be filed in tandem with either an Energy and Water Audit or Retro-Commissioning report, or an Efficiency Improvement Measure Report. It is important to note that an Efficiency Improvement Measure Report must demonstrate that two measures were completed and reported no later than May 1st of your deadline year. The following is a list of Energy and Water Efficiency Improvement Measures set by the state of California:

    • Installation of one or more of the following items on the property:

    o In accordance with the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24)

    § Common area and exterior lighting features

    § Domestic hot water heater

    § Plumbing systems

    § Outdoor landscaping and irrigation systems

    § Greywater system

    o Smart thermostat

    o Solar thermal heating/cooling system

    o Insulation on all hot water pipes in, accessible
    locations

    • Replacement of one or more of the following items on
    the property:

    o All refrigerators to ENERGY STAR® Certified models

    o All gas stoves to electric induction stoves

    o All gas water heaters to an electric heat pump or tankless water heaters

    • Enrollment or participation in department-approved
    actions:

    o A utility demand response program

    o An Energy and/or water utility retrofit program (e.g., rebate and/or incentive programs pertaining to upgrades)

    This extensive report is due no later than your deadline. You could apply for a 60-day extension – no more than 180 days if proof of hardship is available – but the city isn’t required to grant you this request. Given this, it’s best to get started with filing right away. Schedule a meeting with
    one of our professionals to learn how we can help you meet this new San Jose requirement. Click here or the Audit department and here for Building Upgrades.

     

    Tackling Climate Change

    “Climate change is no longer some far-off problem; it is happening here, it is happening now.” – Barack Obama

    Tackling Climate Change

    Last month, the World Economic Forum published a 14-page report titled “Urban Transformation: Integrated Energy Solution” in which they discuss how cities worldwide can become “decarbonized, sustainable, and resilient urban ecosystems” to help fight climate change. Through 13-case studies, World Economic Forum discovered that to achieve net-zero carbon goals and promote healthy communities, cities must develop integrated urban ecosystems based on two things:

        1. Environment: green building standards, low-cost green financing, and smart energy infrastructures

        2. Mobility: decarbonized public fleets and compact urban forms and planning

    Based on the 13-case studies, there were a few notable projects and initiatives that we feel cities and building owners should consider adopting. In Asia, the Jurong Lake District in Singapore is considered a leading sustainable district with its mixed-use buildings (e.g. office and retail spaces, entertainment and attractions, and residential and travel accommodations). With numerous walking and cycling paths and plans for four major rail lines, the Jurong Lake District aims to reduce locals and visitors’ reliance on cars while still meeting high sustainability targets. At the Viettel corporate headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, they have saved up to 20% in energy fees by making the switch to smart building technologies. Using smart building technologies, Viettel worked with ABB to set up a digital system to enable precise controlling of the building’s operational systems (e.g., lighting, heating, security, and energy).

    Over in Italy, they have developed two separate consumer programs: 110% Superbonus and Open Meter. Via the 110% Superbonus, apartment buildings, and homeowners can claim up to 110% tax credit on energy efficiency and/or anti-seismic improvements. The credit can be used over 5-year towards their taxes, sold to third parties, or used as credit on their supplier invoices. Italy’s Open Meter project aims to allow 35 million Italian consumers the ability to track and control their usage via a smart meter device that collects real-time energy data from the grid. Similar to Italy’s Open Meter project, Wellington and Auckland, New Zealand has FutureFit – a “gamified carbon calculator” that allows citizens to measure their personal climate impacts in regards to transportation, food, energy, and living. Based on their individual carbon emissions, citizens can participate in “challenges” to help reduce their carbon impact. And like any other game, you can share your progress and/or compete with friends and family.

    Whether it’s constructing new walking and cycling paths, adopting smart building systems, or releasing consumer programs (i.e., Open Meter and FutureFit) there are numerous ways that governments and the people can help fight the global climate crisis. To read the full report by the World Economic Forum, click here.

    Feliz Día de los Muertos

    Feliz Dia de Los Muertos

    Día de Los Muertos, aka Day of the Dead, is a Mexican holiday where families honor and celebrate the lives of deceased loved ones. This two-day celebration – November 1st and 2nd – has traditions inspired by Aztec religious beliefs and practices. The Aztecs believed that when a person dies, their souls would travel to Mictlán – the final destination in the afterlife. To help the souls on their journey, the living would leave offerings upon decorated tree stumps. This Aztec tradition is like the Ofrendas that Mexican families create for their deceased. Ofrendas are typically adorned with pictures of the deceased, marigolds, calaveras (sugar skulls), foods, and objects the deceased enjoyed. In Disney’s Coco, we see the bridge the deceased are traveling on is made of marigolds which highlights the flower’s importance to the celebration. Marigolds, or flor de cempasúchil, have strong unique scents that are believed to attract spirits hence why they are placed on ofrendas to help guide the departed souls home. Something that many of us may be able to relate to is how families will even clean and decorate the graves of their loved ones where they will then share meals and stories beside the graves. To best summarize, Dayofthedead.holiday writes that Día de Los Muertos “is unlike any holiday where mourning is exchanged for celebration.”

     

    Fun Fact:

    Halloween originated from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain and was popularized in the United States by Irish immigrants around the 1850s. – History.com.

    Jack-O-Lanterns – More Than Just a Pumpkin

    Halloween originated

    Did you know that the term “jack-o-lantern” originates from an old Irish folktale? According to History.com, there is an Irish myth about a man named “Stingy Jack” who tricked the Devil twice. On the first occasion, Stingy Jack invited the Devil for a drink and convinced the Devil to turn into a coin so they could pay. Instead of paying, Stingy Jack pocketed the money and kept it next to a silver cross so the Devil couldn’t escape. The Devil only got free once he agreed would leave Stingy Jack alone for a year and not claim his soul. A year passes and when the Devil goes to see Stingy Jack, he’s tricked again. This time Stingy Jack convinces the Devil to climb a tree to retrieve a piece of fruit. Once in the tree, Stingy Jack carved the sign of the cross on the tree so the Devil could not climb down until he agreed to leave Stingy Jack alone for another 10-years. When Stingy Jack dies, it’s believed that God refused to let him in for his poor behavior. The Devil – still upset for having been tricked twice – keeps his word to not claim Stingy Jack’s soul and therefore cannot let him into hell. Instead, the Devil gives Stingy Jack a lump of single burning coal to use as light and sends him off into the night. It is said that Stingy Jack took the coal and placed it in a carved-out turnip and uses it to wander the earth for eternity. The Irish would see his ghostly figure and deemed it “Jack of the Lantern” which was later shortened to “Jack O’Lantern.” But it doesn’t end there. To scare off Stingy Jack and any other potential evil spirits, people in Ireland, Scotland, and England began carving scary faces into vegetables such as turnips, potatoes, and beets. When the Irish immigrants came to the U.S., they brought Halloween and began carving faces into pumpkins instead of turnips and potatoes. And that’s how the jack-o-lanterns as we know it came to be.

    Halloween Holiday

    Danielle’s Corner

    Halloween Halloween is easily one of my favorite holidays so even during a pandemic I’m on the hunt for fun ways to celebrate while also staying safe. Personally, I think the safest way to celebrate is virtual as you can participate from the confines of your own home. You can either attend a virtual event or host your own. Eventbrite.com has a good selection of free and paid virtual events all throughout October to get you in the Halloween mood. On October 17th, the Historic Dumfries Virginia, Inc. is hosting a free event called Halloween Tea where you’ll hear scary stories and learn fun food and drink recipes. You’ll even get a PDF copy of the recipes in case you plan on hosting a Halloween soirée of your own. Speaking of, for those who enjoy being hostess with the mostest, you can plan a virtual Halloween celebration. For those with kids, I’d recommend doing Halloween-themed Bingo or Scavenger Hunts. You can get free Halloween Bingo and Scavenger Hunt templates from teambuilding.com or create your own. Even as an adult I think that sounds like fun! Should you have little ones who enjoy the thrills of trick-or-treating, I would recommend pre-making goodie bags. Now, this may take some cooperation with your neighbors, but if they agree, you simply give your neighbors pre-filled and sealed goodie bags full of candies and treats to hand to your kids when they come knocking on Halloween night. This allows your kids to enjoy some semblance of Halloween normalcy while also helping to keep them safe. Even if you don’t have kids, you could do this with your friends. I made my boyfriend a “spooky basket” last year filled with Halloween and autumnal-themed goodies – not just food – and he loved it. Spooky baskets are a fun way for adults to almost relive the excitement of trick-or-treating. Plus, if you’re a creative soul it’s just fun to make. Have a spooktacular Halloween and if you end up doing something fun, tag us on Instagram @vertenergygroup so the Vert Community can get ideas for next year!  
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