COMMUNITY NEWS
Michigan public power utility Grand Haven Board of Light and Power and Ottawa County Community Action Agency partnered on Nov. 14 to host an event offering free home-improvement programming to reduce energy costs for the residents of River Haven, Grand Haven’s largest manufactured home community.
The River Haven community, home to 700 units and 2,000 residents, invited residents to a clubhouse to pick up BLP energy-saving kits and learn about the Weatherization Assistance Program funded by the Department of Energy.
This program funds energy-efficiency improvements for income-eligible residents. OCCAA, which locally administers the Weatherization program, briefly presented the program to residents, providing information on its process and collecting applications from those interested.
Income-eligible residents can expect to receive energy efficiency upgrades worth an average of $10,000 for their homes, which will help them save 10% to 20% on energy costs over time.
“Not everyone in our community can afford the upfront investments necessary for meaningful energy efficiency. This initiative creates access for those who need help to ensure their home’s health and comfort,” said Erik Booth, Operations & Power Supply Manager of the Grand Haven Board of Light and Power. “Partnering with OCCAA to offer this program presents an innovative and collaborative approach for us to work together as a community toward our energy reduction goals while also improving the affordability of essential utilities.”
Eligible participants of the weatherization program begin the process with a free home energy audit to uncover where the most energy loss occurs and make a plan for improvement.
Local contractors then use the resulting work order to make improvements that will yield the greatest return on investment in reducing the home’s energy use. Residents can expect the renovations to save them hundreds of dollars each year on utility bills.
“OCCAA is dedicated to helping families grow in self-sufficiency and economic independence,” said Jennifer Brozowski, Program Director of Ottawa County Community Action Agency. “Our weatherization program helps families reduce monthly utility costs so they can invest and save in other areas.”
Potential energy-saving home renovations include caulking, air-sealing, fixing broken windows, insulation, water heater maintenance, furnace repairs, plumbing repairs, minor floor repairs, and other projects as needed. After outside contractors complete these improvements, a CAA member conducts a quality control inspection to ensure the upgrades meet the necessary standards.
At the event, the BLP also distributed electric-saving kits containing smart strips, LED light bulbs, smart wall sockets, a home energy audit booklet, and other items.
