Charleston Launches Free Energy Efficiency Program for Low-Income Residents

Charleston Residents Benefit from Energy Efficiency Program

In a wonderful collaboration, the city of Charleston has seen an exciting new initiative brought to life thanks to a partnership between Dominion Energy and the Charleston Housing Authority. This partnership aims to help residents save money on their energy bills and promote energy efficiency within low-income households.

What is the Neighborhood Energy Efficiency Program?

Dominion Energy has launched the Neighborhood Energy Efficiency Program, specifically designed for income-eligible residents to educate them on how to use energy more efficiently. This initiative offers a range of services and products to significantly lower their electricity costs, making it easier for families to manage their finances while living comfortably in their homes.

One of the best parts? This program is absolutely free for qualifying residents! The aim is to not only reduce energy bills but also to enhance the overall comfort of those who might be struggling the most.

Direct Assistance for Residents

While the program has been around since 2013, this year marks the first time it is being implemented in housing authority properties, impacting over 1,800 customers. Some of the practical upgrades include the installation of LED light bulbs, faucet aerators, replacements for HVAC filters, and weatherstripping for doors and windows.

Beginning in June, Dominion Energy representatives have been going door to door in various housing authority areas, discussing energy conservation tips and assessing the energy use in residents’ homes. It’s a hands-on approach that sets this initiative apart from many others, and it’s proving to be beneficial for everyone involved.

A Personal Touch

Paul Fischer, the spokesperson for Dominion Energy, highlights how this program is unique because they are literally knocking on doors to reach customers who need support. Fischer noted, “We are going to provide these resources and energy efficiency education directly to our customers who need this help the most.”

The results so far have been promising! On average, residents who participate in the Neighborhood Energy Efficiency Program save around one month’s bill per year. Beyond that, since launching the program in 2013, South Carolina Dominion Energy customers have collectively reduced their electricity consumption by a staggering over 1 billion kilowatt-hours, which is enough energy to power about 92,000 homes for an entire year!

A Testimony of Impact

One customer benefiting from this initiative, Tony Gambrell, shared how the program has already started making a significant difference in his life. “It’s saving me money,” Gambrell exclaimed. “That’s all this boils down to is, it’s saving me money. It lets me know how much money I have spent on my light bill.” He expressed gratitude for the support from Dominion Energy and the Housing Authority, emphasizing that it shows they care about the residents’ welfare.

Making Progress Across Charleston

Since the program’s kickoff in June, energy efficiency upgrades have been made in hundreds of units across more than 20 properties throughout the Charleston peninsula. Places like Cooper River Court, Meeting Street Manor, and Wraggborough Homes have all seen improvements, with over 60% of eligible units already receiving upgrades. And it doesn’t look like this will slow down anytime soon, as they expect to wrap up the project in the upcoming weeks!

A Thriving Partnership

The Charleston Housing Authority is thrilled to have teamed up with Dominion Energy for this initiative, as it allows them to connect with the residents they serve and enhance their quality of life. Public Information Officer Vernon Graham voiced the importance of this project, saying, “We are always looking for opportunities to improve the quality of life of our residents and so we saw this as a tremendous opportunity.”

As this partnership proceeds, there are plans for the Neighborhood Energy Efficiency Program budget to increase by $3 million in shareholder funds over the next five years starting in 2025. This increase will allow more families to benefit and aid in reducing energy costs, especially during challenging economic times.

For residents in Charleston looking to make the most of their energy consumption and help save a few bucks along the way, the Neighborhood Energy Efficiency Program is certainly worth looking into. Who wouldn’t love a little extra cash in their pocket with a bit of added comfort at home?