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01/05/2023 07:56 AMJoint Press Release, Towns of Branford and East Haven
Branford and East Haven are collaborating to increase the energy efficiency of homes. Electricity and heating are major drains on household budgets and are important contributors to climate change. Energy efficiency lowers utility bills, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and contributes to Connecticut’s energy goals.
Branford conducted their first HeatSmart campaign in 2021 in collaboration with People’s Action for Clean Energy (PACE). In the first year more than 450 residents signed up for the program. Bernard Pelletier, PACE VP, said, “Branford was the first town in Connecticut to run a HeatSmart campaign. It helped hundreds of residents make their homes more efficient, comfortable and affordable. “Round 2” of HeatSmart builds on that success and will help residents save money and energy." In 2023 Branford and East Haven will work together on HeatSmart. They are applying for Energize ConnecticutSM Community Partnership Initiative funding. HeatSmart will reach out to all Branford and East Haven residents, with special emphasis on Income Eligible residents who struggle with utility bills and often live in energy inefficient dwellings.
The HeatSmart initiative connects residents with expert contractors who conduct a no-obligation Energize CT- supported Home Energy Solutions (HES) evaluation. The contractors offer modest improvements such as caulking and weather stripping. They may recommend other measures such as insulation or heat pumps. After HES, residents are eligible for Energize CT incentives for these further measures that make the monthly efficiency savings even more attractive. The HES visit costs only $50 but can result in much greater savings. HES is no-cost for Income Eligible residents, who also qualify for enhanced incentives on further improvements.
Branford First Selectman James Cosgrove fully supports HeatSmart outreach: “The Branford Clean Energy Committee has a track record of successful outreach to our community. We are very pleased to collaborate with our neighbors in East Haven to spread energy efficiency on the Shoreline. HeatSmart is a great program. Everyone should sign up and start saving money and energy.”
East Haven Mayor Joseph Carfora agrees: “The Town of East Haven is excited to announce the kickoff of HeatSmart East Haven. Becoming a HeatSmart participant, whether you are a homeowner or renter, is a great first step. This education program will help individuals make informed choices when it comes to their home’s heating and cooling needs; connect resources to improve the efficiency and comfort of their home. I encourage all town residents to take advantage of this program. Together we can make a difference.”
The HeatSmart team will begin by circulating flyers through the towns’ social service centers and food pantries and posting information at the town halls and libraries. A more general outreach campaign will follow with direct mailings to East Haven and Branford residents.
Sign up for HeatSmart at www.heatsmartbranfordct.org or www.heatsmartct.org/easthaven. You can also call (203) 292-8088 to speak with us directly.