New Program To Save On Energy Costs

Greenbelt residents can learn on Tuesday more about a unique program designed to help them save money on their home energy expenses.

The "We Can Save Energy" Workshop is the kickoff for a pilot program aimed at helping Greenbelt homeowners save on their energy usage and costs.

"This exciting new program is designed to help residents see real savings on their home energy bills," Maia Davis said. Davis is a representative from the Washington Metropolitan Council of Governments, one of the sponsors of the home energy challenge.

When a household signs up for the program, they will be able to create their own checklists in order to track their household energy usage, Davis said. There will be an application available online to view actual savings as well as suggestions for measures homeowners can take to improve their energy performance, Davis said. "You will even be able to compare your energy use with that of your neighbors."

Another unique aspect of the program is that households will earn reward point and discounts that can be redeemed at area businesses as they save on energy costs. In addition, community groups and homeowners associations can encourage Greenbelt households to sign up for the "We Can" energy challenge and share information about their savings through social media, Davis said.

The workshop is part of the quarterly lecture series of the Friends of Greenbelt Museum and the Greenbelt Climate Action Network.   It will be held at 7:30pm at the Greenbelt Community Center.