Happy Earth Day! Every Earth Day brings an opportunity to celebrate and protect the earth we share. Together, we can make our environment healthier for ourselves and future generations.
Upgrading to clean energy technologies, both collectively and individually, is an important part of that effort. And, even better, making clean energy choices can also save you money!
With many options now available, it can be hard to know where to start. So this Earth Day, we’re sharing tips on simple steps you can take to save energy, lower your energy bills, and help create a healthier environment for all.
Tip #1: Do a home energy assessment
For most of us, our homes are not as energy efficient as they could be. An energy assessment or audit can help identify opportunities to improve your home’s efficiency, including low-cost and easy improvements.
You can schedule a professional assessment or do it yourself. Check with your local energy utility as well; many offer free or reduced-cost assessments. And did you know that a qualifying home energy audit can get you up to a $150 federal tax credit?
Bottom line? An assessment or audit is a great first step towards making your home more comfortable, with cleaner air and lower energy bills.
Tip #2: Go the DIY route
Check out this list from energy.gov of doable DIY projects that can help you save energy and money and improve your home’s comfort. From weatherization to insulating your hot water pipes, a weekend or two of work could equal serious savings.
Even if you're not as comfortable with a toolbox—or if you're renting your home—there are plenty of small changes you can make that can help reduce energy bills, from using devices efficiently to adjusting the thermostat. This article from the Natural Resources Defense Council has a good list of easy and low-cost suggestions.
Tip #3: Invest in energy efficiency upgrades
A larger investment up front can make a big difference over time in lowering your overall energy costs. Common upgrades include installing more efficient heating and cooling systems, upgrading to ENERGY STAR certified appliances and more. Again, energy.gov has a great list of resources. And if you need a loan for your project, contact your local branch to ask about our Energy Saver Loans. They're a great way to finance energy efficiency home improvements at an affordable rate.
Tip #4: Consider an electric vehicle for your next car
Electric vehicles (EVs) cost less to maintain and power, meaning that they can be a smart decision to help you save money and reduce air pollution. Consumer Reports has a good guide to researching and buying an EV, including resources on charging options and tax credits. And if you'll need financing, check out our EV loans for a reduced-rate option that can help make your purchase more affordable.
Tip #5: Look into tax credits
An unprecedented number of incentives are currently available to help everyday people make smart energy choices. From tax credits for EVs to state-level incentives for home improvements and more, now is a great time to transition to cleaner energy.
The Energy Savings Hub at energy.gov provides useful information on federal tax credits, and the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency is another good resource for finding tax credits and other incentives, organized by state.
It's never been easier to make smart choices that can not only save you money, but also help ensure we all have a healthy environment for many generations to come. Good luck, and happy Earth Day!
Exciting clean energy news for Self-Help
Did you hear the big news? Climate United, a coalition of organizations that includes Self-Help, has been awarded $6.97 billion from the EPA.
We're honored and excited, and we're looking forward to using the award to expand access to clean energy choices—like many of the options mentioned above—to more communities like the ones we serve.
Stay tuned over the next few months as we further develop program plans, and follow Climate United to get even more updates.