Energy Efficiency

Project Summary

The benefits of getting a no-cost Home Energy Assessment are many: greater comfort, lower environmental impact and increased home value, to name a few. But for George Downie, a longtime resident of West Springfield, Massachusetts, it all came down to one thing: “To save money.”

Recommended by his accountant, the assessment’s money-saving possibilities were clear to Downie from the start. “We have an older home, and I knew it needed some help,” he said. “I’m semi-retired and money is always an issue. Any way I can save money and improve my comfort, I will do it.”

During the assessment, a Mass Save® Energy Specialist replaced all of Downie’s light bulbs with LEDs and installed energy-saving products like programmable thermostats and a low-flow showerhead. The specialist also discovered several additional opportunities for energy efficiency upgrades throughout the home, outlining them all in a custom report.

Solution

Acting on the Energy Specialist’s recommendations, Downie had insulation added to his attic and eaves, air leaks sealed in drafty areas of his home, in addition to other energy saving upgrades. “The job was handled well,” he said. “The contractors did an incredible job. I was really impressed.”

Thanks to $3,814 in Eversource incentives, nearly 80% of the total project costs were covered. After seeing the impact the improvements have made on his energy use, Downie expects to start seeing a return on his investment in 18 months. “I’ve received two electric bills and each one was about 30% less than usual, so I think that’s going to happen.”

With over $1,000 in estimated annual energy savings, that extra money may come rolling in even sooner than he thinks.