White River Junction
Beginning Wednesday, the nonprofit organization will hold a series of five kickoff events to introduce homeowners in 11 towns in the Twin States to the Weatherize Upper Valley program. In addition to learning about energy efficiency and weatherization, residents can meet neighbors who have made their homes more energy efficient, learn about energy audits and talk to certified weatherization contractors.
“It can typically cost homeowners $400 or more just to get a project proposal and quote. Providing free or reduced-cost energy assessments is a significant way to help more homeowners explore the idea of energy improvements,” said Sarah Brock, energy program manager at Vital Communities, who worked with a variety of stakeholders to develop the Weatherize Upper Valley concept, in a news release.
Energy projects include air sealing and adding insulation to homes. A typical weatherization process costs $6,000 to $8,000, Brock said in the news release, and can save 20 to 26 percent in energy costs each year.
This is second round of Weatherize Upper Valley. During last year’s inaugural program, more than 100 homeowners did home energy upgrades, according to the release.
“With generous rebates in both Vermont and New Hampshire, plus the benefit of increased comfort, it’s an easy decision for many homeowners to make if we can just help them take the first step,” Brock said in the news release. “Weatherize Upper Valley does just that, with a goal of doubling the number of home energy projects completed in the participating towns each year.”
Plainfield and Cornish
Jan. 24, 7-8:30 p.m.
Plainfield Elementary School Music Room, 92 Bonner Road, Meriden.
Snow date: Jan. 30. Call 207-624-2012 to confirm.
Springfield and Chester
Jan. 25, 6-7:30 p.m.
Springfield First Congregational Church, 77 Main St., Springfield, Vt.
Snow date: Feb. 1. Call 207-624-2012 to confirm.
Orford, Piermont and Lyme
Jan. 27, 2-3:30 p.m.
Rivendell Academy, 2972 Route 25A, Orford.
Snow date: Jan. 28. Call 207-624-2012 to confirm.
Lebanon
Jan. 29, 7-8:30 p.m.
Kilton Public Library, 80 Main St., West Lebanon.
Snow date: Jan. 31. Call 207-624-2012 to confirm.
Woodstock, Bridgewater and Pomfret
Jan. 30, 6-7:30 p.m.
Norman Williams Public Library, 10 The Green, Woodstock.
Snow date: Feb. 6, at Woodstock Town Hall, 31 The Green. Call 802-457-2911 to confirm.
Editor’s note: For more information visit vitalcommunities.org/energy/weatherize/ or call 802-291-9100. Liz Sauchelli can be reached at esauchelli@vnews.com.
