Interested in lower heating bills this winter?
Since the answer to that question is probably yes, BetterBuildings for Michigan has just launched a program you may be interested in.
The GR1K campaign, which began Oct. 29, will give 1,000 homeowners the chance to get a comprehensive, home energy assessment for only $99 through the end of December 2012.
This assessment is performed by a certified energy contractor and uses sophisticated thermal imaging technology and equipment to help people find ways to improve their home’s energy performance, lower their utility bills, and make their homes more comfortable.
Typically, an assessment like this would cost between $350-$500. As added incentive for the $99 fee, BetterBuildings contractors will also install energy-saving measures on the spot such as new programmable thermostats, low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators, pipe wrap, and CFL light bulbs.
BetterBuildings for Michigan is a statewide program that began in 2010 as the result of a $30 million grant awarded by the United States Department of Energy through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
Locally, the Grand Rapids BetterBuildings program is administered through a partnership with West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC), the Community Development department within the City of Grand Rapids, and Michigan Energy Office.
On Oct. 29, the day the GR1K program launched, WMEAC had an open house at its headquarters at 1007 Lake Drive offering residents a 50 percent discount if they signed up that day. Around 20 people showed up and another 70 or so have called and registered online so far.
The program is limited to only 1,000 customers, so at least 900 spots are still open.
WMEAC Communications and Member Services Director, Daniel Schoonmaker, cautions people not to wait too long though.
“If you’re resident 1,001, you don’t get in,” he says.
The Grand Rapids BetterBuildings program had an original goal of doing assessments in 2,500 homes, but only to select neighborhoods, employers, and social networks. The GR1K program is open to all Grand Rapids residents and once it’s done, they will exceed the original goal due to a few hundred additional spots the City of Grand Rapids pulled in from other parts of the state.
The GR1K also offers incentives, rebates, and affordable financing to residents to make it easier for them to implement the recommended changes. On top of applicable utility rebates, the current package of incentives includes a 1.99% APR exclusive home energy loan for up to $20,000, or an up to $1,500 discount on improvements. Incentives may vary for homes outside of city limits.
If you want to participate in the BetterBuildings for Michigan GR1K program, don’t wait. Here’s the information you need to participate and find out more:
- Visit GR1K online to register.
- Call WMEAC at (616) 451.3051, ext. 40.
- Be sure to tell your friends about the program. WMEAC is also looking for volunteer ambassadors for the program to help spread the word and these volunteers will receive extra incentives.
- Like WMEAC on Facebook to stay informed on what they’re doing.
- Follow @WMEAC on Twitter.
Sources: Daniel Schoonmaker, Communications and Member Services Director for the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC), and Selma Tucker, Contract Administrator and Regional Coordinator for BetterBuildings for Michigan.
Writer: Heidi Stukkie, Do Good Editor
Images provided by WMEAC and BetterBuildings for Michigan.
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