EPB has completed its 250th Home Energy Upgrade since the program started in 2015 and will continue the program for approximately 100 homes with an additional $1 million in financial support.
Home Energy Upgrade provides customers living in limited income households with renovations that reduce energy usage. An additional $500,000 in support provided by the Tennessee Valley Authority and $500,000 from Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati and Pinnacle Bank will enable EPB to continue to work with green|spaces in Chattanooga to continue the program through 2020.
EPB’s Home Energy Upgrade recipients have realized average household energy usage reductions of at least 26%, or more than $500 annually, exceeding the program’s initial goal of 20% reductions.
Home Energy Upgrade was created as a partnership between EPB, TVA and green|spaces. The pilot program began with initial partners United Way, Salvation Army, Causeway, Habitat for Humanity, Benwood, Footprint and Lyndhurst along with area residents and neighborhood leaders providing input.
EPB is seeking qualified applicants to be considered for the next phase of the program. After a vetting process for applicants, EPB’s Energy & Communications Services team members will perform an energy analysis of selected recipients’ homes and develop a plan for improvements.
Home Energy Upgrade participants receive home upgrades valued at up to $10 per square foot for work including insulation, HVAC and duct repair or replacement, energy efficient LED lighting and repairs such as weather-stripping.
To qualify for the next round of Home Energy Upgrade, EPB customers who own their own home need to meet specific requirements, including a household income of less than $24,700 for a family of two individuals, with priority given to applicants with special needs.
Apply for assistance: info@greenspaceschattanooga.org, 423 648-0963. Green|spaces will provide assistance for the application process with EPB.
Source: EPB