The Home Energy Guides program was a collaboration between the Office of Energy & Climate Change and local community-based organizations, aimed at helping Dane County residents access energy efficiency, electrification, and weatherization programs. The goal was to have a real person from our community help residents participate in these programs by helping residents through every step of the process. Outreach teams through Wisconsin Ecolatinos and the Hmong Institute provided information about Focus on Energy rebates, federal home energy rebates, and Weatherization Assistance.
Home Energy Guides were available to help residents know about existing rebate and weatherization assistance opportunities, then help residents through each stage, from application to connecting with qualified contractors.
Due to aging or poorly maintained homes and lower average incomes, many low-income households across Dane County experience high energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Although the average American household spends about 3.5% of its income on energy, households experiencing poverty spend more than twice that, placing an unfair burden on those least able to afford it.
Improving energy efficiency and electrifying homes can help close that gap. These upgrades not only lower utility bills but also create safer, healthier living environments. Poor indoor air quality and temperature fluctuations contribute to serious health problems, accounting for 14% of U.S. healthcare costs. Simple improvements like air sealing and insulation have been shown to reduce asthma-related emergency room visits by up to 12%.
The majority of Wisconsin households could benefit from home energy and electrification upgrades that reduce costs, improve comfort, and support long-term health and well-being. Our aim is to ensure everyone has access to energy efficiency improvements, lowering the cost of utility bills, creating safer and more comfortable homes, and reducing emissions at the same time.
