The Energy+ Program
Residential Energy Efficiency-Focused Improvements
The HOME Foundation has been part of the Energy+ Team since 2018, following the successful completion of the State College Community Land Trust Green Build Duplex the same year. The net-zero ready duplex was designed and built by partners in the Penn State Hamer Centre for Community Design - Energy Efficient Housing Research Group, Envinity, Inc., the State College Borough and the Pennsylvania Housing and Research Center. THF was invited to join the group to determine ways to use the lessons learned from the project to inform energy and cost saving retrofits on the homes acquired for the first time homebuyer program are rehabilitated before the resale. The work has recently expanded to the rental properties developed by THF.
The Energy+ initiative is a program to design, implement, and evaluate residential energy efficiency-focused capital improvements, specifically geared toward making affordable housing in the State College area even more affordable to live in. By reducing energy usage and cost burdens, it is hoped residents will be able to build resiliency and sustainability in their housing.
Want to make your home energy efficient?
We can help!
Currently, THF is looking to expand the program by assisting homeowners in acquiring an energy audit in their home, then navigate cost and energy saving improvements that will reduce household expenses and use healthier, more sustainable energy systems to heat and cool. The THF Energy Case Manager can assist interpreting the audit and find financial resources to help pay for the improvements. It is part of a collaborative effort with local governments and other housing related stakeholders to use building improvements to help meet goals of the Centre Region Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.
For more information, send an email to Shirley at sgorski@thehomefoundationcc.org