A new partnership could make energy-efficiency makeover projects an easier proposition for homeowners.
Hampton-based Unitil has joined with the BetterBuildings program to bolster the scope and financing of the utility's energy-efficiency programs. Unitil Energy Efficiency Program Coordinator Ben Stephenson said the increased funding through the BetterBuildings partnership will allow the state's second-largest utility to expand access to programs that offer incentives for energy-saving upgrades and no-interest financing for renovation costs.
"Enhanced financing means that our customers can do more work and the upgrades are payable right on their monthly utility bill," Stephenson said.
Stephenson said homeowners can receive a 50 percent rebate — up to $4,000 — to pay for the renovation costs. Some of the eligible energy-efficient improvements include adding insulation, reducing air infiltration and leakage, sealing ductwork, upgrading lighting, replacing old, inefficient refrigerators, installing water-saving devices and replacing home heating systems.
The new program also allows customers to access additional financing up to $20,000 for efficiency measures not previously covered, such as exterior insulated siding, Energy Star-rated appliances, Energy Star-rated doors and windows, mold/mildew remediation and radon/water mitigation. Unitil had previously been able to offer interest-free loans up to $7,500.
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