Dearborn Residents Eligible for Money-Saving Energy Audit

Dearborn residents can benefit from reduced energy bills and potentially save hundreds of dollars by participating in a BetterBuildings for Michigan program available to them for the first time because of a new partnership with the Southeast Michigan Regional Energy Office.

The deadline for residents to sign up for the cost-savings program is March 31. The process begins when residents register for a $100 home energy audit.

Participants in the BetterBuildings for Michigan program save an average of $230 per year on energy bills and can also access up to $5,000 in incentives if they choose to make energy saving home improvements, from adding insulation to replacing a furnace.

Dearborn residents can register at www.MiHomeEnergy.org or by calling 313-566-4801 by March 31.

The $100 energy audit identifies ways to save energy and money at home. It also includes installation of CFL lightbulbs, a low-flow shower head and a programmable thermostat.

The Energy Office is a coalition of nonprofits and communities that work to help local governments reduce their energy use and save money for their citizens through energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.

The City of Dearborn officially became the 24th member of the Energy Office on Feb. 12 with a vote by Dearborn’s City Council, following a recommendation by Mayor Jack O'Reilly.

Giving residents access to energy funding through BetterBuildings for Michigan was a key reason for the City of Dearborn’s interest in the Energy Office.

“This is a good opportunity for people to reduce their bills and invest in their homes,” said Mayor O’Reilly.

“We are also interested in seeing what opportunities are available for our city buildings,” he added, referring to grant seeking services for municipal energy projects that the Regional Energy Office also provides.

In addition to the regular program, ACCESS, a local social service agency, will work with the Energy Office to offer a limited number of free home energy packages to low-income clients.

“This is a win-win. The program is good for the environment and good for the economic well-being of low-income Michiganders who are struggling to make ends meet,” said Hassan Jaber, executive director of ACCESS.

In addition to the BetterBuildings for Michigan program, the Energy Office also provides grant administration and technical assistance to help local governments save energy. More details about that program are available at www.regionalenergyoffice.org.

This information was provided by the City of Dearborn.