an Energy Star rated refrigerator, freezer, clothes washer or dishwasher. Rebates issued since the launch of the program represent an estimated total sales of $46.4 million. Savings for individual households will be significant in the long-term for those who took advantage of the pro- gram. The 49,000 appliances purchased will save enough electric energy to run 536 homes for one year and enough natural gas to serve 390 homes for one year. These numbers are staggering, and demonstrate how replacing old appli- ances with new energy-saving models can have a great impact on local energy supplies. In addition, these recovery funds went directly towards the pur- chase of appliances, bringing business to stores, increasing product demand, and directly increasing the local econo- my and employment opportunities. The second phase of the Energy
Star Appliance Program will begin June 1, 2010, and more appliances will be eligible for purchase by consumers seeking to reduce energy costs. In the second phase, $1 million will be avail- able through a mail-in rebate program. More detailed information, and appli- cations for rebates, will be available at
www.energy.net.
Expanding the North Carolina Weatherization Assistance Program
The North Carolina Weatheriza-
tion Assistance Program helps low- income families across the state save energy and reduce utility bills. The goal of the Weatherization Program is to
keep North Carolina residents warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The program recently received nearly $132 million from the Federal Recovery Act of 2009. The mission of the North Carolina Weatherization Assistance Program is to improve energy efficiency and household safety, and to educate the public about improving energy ef- ficiency. The program’s focus is on the elderly, the disabled, families with chil- dren, and high-energy users who create a burden on family budgets.
Effron comments, “Currently we as- sist 250 qualified families a month, and we look forward to increasing this num- ber to over 750 homes a month through utilizing this specialized funding.” Weatherization assistance is avail- able for single-family homes, apart- ments, condominiums and mobile homes. Trained staff evaluate energy efficiency and educate families on steps they can take to save on energy bills. Other services include repairing or re- placing heating or cooling appliances, making minor repairs to assure safety, installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and other minor services. Household energy savings can be as much as $300 a year following weath- erization services. Families with an income level
below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines or those receiving cash as- sistance payments under Work First or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are eligible for weatherization services, and priorities are made for people with dis- abilities, the elderly and families with children. Currently, more than 3,000
have benefited from the program, and with additional funding, the North Caro- lina Department of Commerce will be able to reach more low-income families across the state. To learn more about the North Carolina Weatherization As- sistance Program, visit www.energ-
ync.net.
It Starts with One
How can you
help with energy sav- ing and long-term sustainability? It starts with one household. Look around your home. Perform an energy audit. Re- place light bulbs with LED lights, caulk openings around windows, replace air filters, install door sweepers, inspect water heaters, heaters and air condi- tioning units, and look for other ways you can save energy in your home. Spread the word by helping neighbors and by volunteering for projects in your area. If you own a business or are active in an organization, find ways to reduce energy costs or suggest the installation of cost-saving appliances. Create activi- ties that can involve your children as you look for ways to save energy costs. This will provide an interest and avenue for the younger generation to take our advances even further.
natural awakenings
Annual Guide 2010
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