Business owner Rene Flores reflects on how his abuela helped him be more energy conscious

Energy Trust of Oregon (ETO) has teamed up with LatinoBuilt, a trade association for Latino-owned businesses in construction, to honor the practical routines and teachings Latino families have passed down from one generation to another. Throughout the coming weeks, ETO will launch a series of short videos that highlight LatinoBuilt members, their unique anecdotes of growing up in a Latino household, and how it shaped their views and behaviors on energy efficiency today. 

To kick off the series is Rene Flores, owner of Rubi Heating and Cooling and an Energy Trust trade ally. Flores has worked in the industry for more than 14 years repairing, maintaining and installing heating and cooling systems. His family-owned business helps create comfortable living spaces in homes across the Portland metro area.                                                                         

A native of Mexicali, Baja California in Mexico, he recalls his family trying to save on utility bills when he was younger by only using what they needed. He still has vivid memories of his abuela reminding him to turn off the lights when leaving a room.  

Watch the following video to learn more about Flores’ story and ways he continues to save energy. 

Visit www.energytrust.org/DIY for more tips like these that can help lower your energy costs while increasing the comfort of your home.