Energy Efficiency Resources​

The resources below can help homeowners identify ways to reduce energy consumption. Reduced energy consumption means reduced air pollution from fossil fuel electricity production, which benefits everyone in our region!  Below are Home Energy Saving Tips, Home Energy Saving Videos, and Grants and Assistance Programs. 

Home Energy Saving Tips

Low or no cost actions you can take to save energy (and money):

• Turn heat/air conditioning OFF when you leave the house

• In winter, set your thermostat to 68°F or lower
• Wear layers or use blankets to warm up further
• In summer, set your thermostat to 79°F or higher
• Dress lightly to cool off easier
• Set your refrigerator to a moderate temperature, not to maximum cold
• Wash clothes using cold water only
• Unplug electronics and phone chargers (these use power even when OFF)
• Smart power strips save energy automatically
• Replace your light bulbs with LED bulbs

Higher cost actions you can take to save energy:

• Install a programmable thermostat
• Replace torn, cracked, or drafty weather stripping on exteriors doors
• Insulate water pipes between the water heater and faucets
• Replace an old water heater with a newer, Energy Star certified model
• Replace an old heat pump or gas pack with a newer, Energy Star certified model (see Grants and Assistance Programs below for help with cost!)
• Replace old windows with multi-layered, better insulated windows
• Add insulation to uninsulated areas of your home (e.g. attic space, crawl space, walls around garage, etc.)

Home Energy Saving Videos

The following videos from Electricities of North Carolina illustrate steps you can take to save energy in your home:

• Sealing Doors and Windows
• Winter Tips
• Summer Tips
• Water-Use Tips

• Insulation
• Moisture Control
• Appliances
• Electronics

You can also check out the US Department of Energy’s do-it-yourself projects videos. 

Grants and Assistance Programs

Below is a list of grants and programs that can help you improve your home and appliances:

• Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) page
• North Carolina Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) for home improvements
• Duke Energy assistance programs:
• Free LED Light Bulbs
• Helping Home Fund: home repairs, appliance replacements, and heating/cooling repairs
• Neighborhood Energy Saver: light bulbs, faucet and shower heads, HVAC filters, and other home upgrades
• Fans for senior citizens
  
• Help paying heating bills
• Help paying cooling bills
• Rural Energy Efficiency grants are available for farm-owners in rural areas.  

Suggestions

Report energy efficiency grants or free energy efficiency assistance programs by sending us an email.  (MCAQ will not promote specific products or for-profit services.)