Energy savings program reaches 1,000 homes!
BetterBuildings for Michigan reached 1,000 homes in southeast Michigan this week, helping each home save energy and stay more comfortable inside, even during the hot summer.
The 1,000th home represents a big milestone for the $30M grant that was awarded to the region in 2009. Funds are available to weatherize 3,000 more homes in the area by the end of the year. The program is open to residents of Detroit and 22 other cities throughout the region.
The assessment includes a programmable thermostat, 10 CFL lightbulbs, a low-flow showerhead and faucet aerators to help save energy.
So far the average homeowner is expected to save $235 per year on their energy bills, often with simple home improvement measures like sealing air leaks and installing a programmable thermostat. 20% of residents have gone beyond these basic measures and used the program’s financing to insulate their homes or purchase energy-efficient appliances.
In addition to keeping money in metro Detroiters’ pockets, the energy savings add up to a big environmental benefit for the region. The program is keeping 1,240 metric tons of CO2 per year out of the atmosphere—the equivalent of burning 140,000 gallons of gasoline.
“Energy efficiency is a win-win-win. You save money, reduce energy use and create jobs,” said Jacob Corvidae of the Southeast Michigan Regional Energy Office, which operates the program locally. He added, “And the best part is that your house is more comfortable. It can make a big difference, even in the summer.”
Residents interested in weatherizing their homes with BetterBuildings for Michigan may call 313-566-4801 or sign up online.
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BetterBuildings for Michigan is doing an enormous job providing knowledge to Michigan home owners how to make energy saving homes. Energy efficiency is very crucial and I'm looking forward to aware peoples to create greener homes for better living. Thanks.
It's good start in the right direction. For Mother Nature's sake, I can only hope this eco-friendly program snowballs into more houses across the globe.