In order to maximize your investment in solar it is wise to first reduce the amount of electricity your household consumes. The less electricity required to run your household the smaller the rooftop solar array needed, which in turn will reduce the amount you pay for your new solar system.
This is exactly why Weatherization makes so much sense. Here are the solar friendly benefits you can expect when you decide to weatherize your home.
Energy Assessment
The first step in the weatherization process is a no-cost detailed energy assessment which your utility company will provide. An Energy Specialists will come to your home and present you with a detailed list of your current energy use along with custom recommendations to help you save energy and make your home more comfortable. You will also receive a list describing the available rebates and incentives being offered by your utility company at that time. Rebates which can be used to offset the cost of energy efficient appliances, Heating & cooling equipment, air sealing and insulation.
LED Bulbs
Lighting accounts for 20-30% of the average home’s electric bill. Switching to ENERGY STAR LED (light emitting diode) bulbs is one of the easiest ways to save energy. ENERGY STAR certified bulbs provide the same amount of brightness as standard bulbs and use 90% less energy. Wow! Every bulb you upgrade will reduce the burden on you future solar array. Best of all you may receive LED bulbs at no-cost during your home energy assessment.
Appliances & Products
ENERGY STAR appliances use up to 50% less energy than standard models and have fewer mechanical problems and longer life spans. Best of all are the rebates and incentives available for these upgrades through your utility company.
Heating & Cooling
Heating and cooling is the largest energy expense for most homes. It may account for as much as 48% of the average home’s energy use. Upgrading to Energy Efficient heating and cooling equipment will keep your home more comfortable and your utility bills more manageable year-round. Plus, with newer, high-quality systems, will come lower maintenance costs and longer equipment life. The icing on the cake are the rebates and incentives available for these upgrades through your utility company.
Insulation & Air Sealing
As part of the Home Energy Assessment your Energy Specialists will look for opportunities to seal air leaks and add additional insulation. This will effectively reduce heating costs in the winter and cooling costs in the summer. Best of all are the huge rebates that may cover up to 75% of the cost.
It is worth repeating that reducing the amount of electricity required to run your household will lower the number of solar panels needed and reduce the cost of your solar investment.
We all pay for these rebates through the “Energy Efficiency Charge” each time we pay our utility bill. If you cook or heat with natural gas then you pay this charge twice each month. Isn’t it time you took advantage of these time proven programs being offered in most states including Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachusetts?
Remember: In addition to great rebates and other incentives you may be eligible for 0% financing for all qualifying energy improvements.
Ready to Weatherize
When you decide it’s time to go solar or if you would like more information about Weatherization, call Energy geeks at (401)-766-1540 or contact us online and let one of our friendly and knowledgeable field representatives come to your home and give you a no-cost energy or solar assessment.
