Branford Launches Residential Energy Efficiency HeatSmart Program

BRANFORD, CT —Branford’s Clean Energy Committee announced the town's participation in the HeatSmart program, a joint effort with the Peoples Action for Clean Energy.

According to a media release from First Selectman Jamie Cosgrove, "HeatSmart will help residents optimize their home energy efficiency and will offer a range of simple cost-effective energy solutions."

Cosgrove also noted that the program will also help residents contribute to the state's "energy goals of decreasing reliance on fossil fuels and sharply reducing greenhouse gas emissions."

Fossil fuels contribute to climate change, which is an ongoing threat to coastal communities, our economy, agriculture, and public health, the release reads.

The Clean Energy Committee has drafted an Energy Plan which describes Branford’s energy landscape and charts a path forward. It is now available on the town website for public review and comment (https://www.branford-ct.gov/sustainability-and-compliance/ ).

The first step in HeatSmart is a Home Energy Solutions audit to evaluate home energy efficiency. Residents can apply at www.HeatsmartBranfordCT.org and a preferred HES contractor will make contact to schedule an appointment. CMC and NECS are Branford's HES partners (203 915-1377, mention “HeatSmart”). The HES process provides up to $1,000 worth of home energy services as well as yearly energy savings of up to $250. HES is available free of charge until the end of 2020 or until funding runs out. After the HES evaluation the contractor will share detailed information about recommended upgrades and financial incentives. Upgrades may include heat pumps, insulation, appliances, and solar panels.

Heat pumps are an eco-friendly solution that efficiently heat in the winter and cool in the summer. Contact information for a qualified heat pump installer will also be provided and the homeowner can decide whether to proceed. Prime candidates for saving money with a heat pump include residents who: heat with electrical baseboard, propane, or oil; are installing a new furnace; are adding air conditioning; and/or are constructing an addition or a new home. Grants, rebates, and attractive financing are available for qualified residents.

Solar energy is another way for homeowners to reduce their electric bills and help contribute to Connecticut’s energy goals. In 2018, the State of Connecticut set a goal of producing 40% of its electric power through renewables by 2030, rising to 100% by 2040. The Town of Branford has made renewable energy upgrades such as solar arrays and a geothermal heat pump at town-owned facilities and is committed to adding more systems soon. More than 350 Branford residents have installed solar panels since 2006. Most residential solar electric systems work with the electric grid, sending electricity back to the grid when it produces more than what a home is using. If you have electricity and a roof you should consider solar energy.

For information on how to get started with a free Home Energy Solutions Audit, go to www.HeatSmartBranfordCT.org and click on the “I’m interested” link.