New Haven Register “Savings can start with home audit”

Published: Wednesday September 9, 2009 @ 5:03 pm

By Chris Rhatigan, Register Correspondent

Residents in Bethany, Orange and Woodbridge can take advantage of the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund-sponsored Home Energy Solutions program at the reduced rate of $50. The program normally costs $75. The rebate program runs until Oct. 24.

The program is available to United Illuminating Co. and Connecticut Light and Power customers.

It offers an energy-efficiency audit provided by a certified contractor who will do basic work, including a blower door test to identify air leaks, plugging holes, analyzing air duct efficiency, caulking and weather-stripping windows.

The home energy audit can save customers $1,000 over three years, said Jonathan Gorham, Woodbridge Clean Energy Initiative Task Force chairman.

“If you’re a homeowner, you’re probably wasting money,” Gorham said. He said the goal is to sign up 350 utility customers for the program by Oct. 24. Gorham said that energy efficiency is the best way to manage resources, adding that it’s more cost-effective than creating renewable energy. “We understand energy efficiency comes first,” he said. “It’s about reducing what we use.”

Derrylyn Gorski, Bethany first selectwoman, praised the program. “This is a wonderful thing to be involved with,” Gorski said. “It’s something people can do to help the environment and help themselves.” She said the town will post information on its Web site and promote the program at events, e-mail blasts and schools.

The campaign will be assisted by Amity Regional High School’s global warming club.

To sign up or get more information, go to www.hesprogram.com.

Chris Rhatigan can be reached at chris.rhatigan@gmail.com.