Asheville Reporter

Electrify Asheville-Buncombe has launched a new service, the Home Energy Navigator, aimed at assisting homeowners in transitioning to energy-efficient homes. The program offers free consultations on solar energy, heat pumps, induction cooking, and other electrification options.

Homeowners are paired with Electrify Asheville-Buncombe Navigators who guide them through the electrification process. The initial step involves a 30-minute virtual consultation to assess needs and goals, review financial incentives, and evaluate home suitability for electrification.

Sophie Mullinax of Electrify Asheville-Buncombe explained the purpose: “We understand that home electrification can seem like a daunting task. Our goal with the Home Energy Navigator Program is to make it simpler for local homeowners to understand their options, identify what fits within their budget, and determine the right next steps. A Navigator is here to help every step of the way.”

The consultation includes evaluating current energy status, prioritizing upgrades for savings, providing preliminary evaluations of costs and incentives, and connecting homeowners with contractors. After this assessment, Navigators provide a report outlining estimated costs and potential savings using the RMI Green Upgrade Calculator.

Although final proposals are not part of the service, it aids homeowners in understanding their options better while helping contractors by providing qualified leads.

Emily Hurd from Electrify Asheville-Buncombe stated: “We’re proud to offer this service to both homeowners and contractors. For homeowners, it’s a one-stop resource for understanding home electrification, available incentives, and what’s possible for their specific home. For contractors, it’s an opportunity to work with well-informed, pre-qualified leads that are more likely to proceed with their electrification projects.”

The program also offers ongoing support in navigating various incentives and financing options available for these projects. It builds on efforts initiated last year aimed at transitioning residents of Asheville and Buncombe County towards clean energy solutions.

Starting February 3rd, homeowners can book virtual consultations via the website or email hello@electrifyabc.com. Additionally, community events are planned to raise awareness across city and county levels.

For further details visit electrifyabc.com.