As part of the statewide program Mass Save®—through which homeowners earn access to incentives or rebates for reduced energy consumption—the Salem Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Next Step Living and the city of Salem to spur a comprehensive educational initiative focused on energy conservation and renewable energy.
Next Step Living, a home-energy solutions company, offers a “whole-home approach” that makes residential energy efficiency doable and affordable. They provide recommendations, information about incentives and rebates, and installations. “Our aim for the program was to increase awareness around the Mass Save program, allowing residents to take advantage of it by having a no-cost energy assessment,” explains Suzanne Snyder, regional outreach manager for Next Step Living.
The assessment includes inspection of HVAC systems, the roof, windows, doors, stairs, interior and exterior structures, grounds and drainage, and more. The findings point to problem areas, and recommendations are then made for energy-saving solutions, which the state may reimburse for up to 50 percent of the cost. Residents are encouraged to make upgrades to their heating systems by installing the ductless mini split—an efficient electric system that allows for more zone-by-zone control. Other incentive savings measures include using no-cost CFL and LED light bulbs in qualified fixtures, having a no-cost programmable thermostat installed, employing water-saving devices like sink barriers and low-flow showerheads, and utilizing smart power strips.
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“The fun part of this initiative,” says Salem Chamber of Commerce executive director Rinus Oosthoek, “was that Next Step Living came up with a system where they not only did the inspections but also [benefitted] the city of Salem and the chamber by donating Salem gift certificates to participating homeowners.” (The gift certificates stimulate the local economy, as recipients get a check that can be used anywhere in the business community.)
Interested residents should look for a Next Step Living representative at one of their tabling events, which occur in various locations including the town common, the YMCA, coffee shops, and elsewhere in the community. An explanation of the initiative and details on how to arrange for a home assessment will be provided.
“The payback is very quick,” says Oosthoek, who spent $700 on improvements worth $1,500 for his own home—now his energy bills are $50 to $60 less. Homeowners describe their experience favorably. “Everybody has been pretty positive about it,” he says. It’s seen as a win-win for everybody—people save energy and get a better return on their investment. “I think this is something that could be repeated in other communities,” says Oosthoek.
“I’ve always been of the opinion that if we have a good program, please steal it and repeat it and make it work for everybody.” nextstepliving.com/