Earth Day Tips for Massachusetts Homeowners

Today marks the 41^st anniversary for Earth Day.  It’s hard to believe the holiday has been in existence for four decades and we still haven’t figured out this sustainability thing!

Most people thing that the problem is bigger than them, but if we all did our small part, we would be well on our way.  Don’t get caught in the shuffle.  Forget about the past and start today by making smart choices.  As a solar installer, we tell our customers that their energy strategy must start with efficiency.  I’d like to share some advice on creating a better energy strategy for your Massachusetts home:

1. Get a Mass Save Energy Assessment – Utility companies in the state, such as Bay State Gas Company, The Berkshire Gas Company, Cape Light Compact, National Grid, New England Gas Company, NSTAR, Unitil, and Western Massachusetts Electric Company, have funded a wide range of energy efficiency programs that can lower your ongoing monthly costs almost immediately.  You can start learning about the programs available to you by signing up for a free Mass Save energy assessment.
2. Seal air leaks around doors and windows. If you complete a Mass Save energy assessment and have what is considered to be a “leaky” house, they will send a team to seal these leaks at no cost.  I know because they did this at my home.
3. Add insulation. Most homes lack proper insulation which means money is wasted heating and cooling costs.  A Mass Save energy auditor will measure your current insulation and give you recommendations on additional improvements.  If you move forward on a suggested insulation project, you could qualify for a 75% rebate up to $2,000.  That’s right, you could be paying as little as 25% of the cost.
4. Turn off lights when you’re not using them and use CFL and LEDs whenever possible. Did you know that lighting can account for 10 to 20% of your electricity usage?  Simple ideas like changing your usage habits and using energy efficient bulbs will equal big savings over time.
5. Look for Energy Star appliances. Major appliances, like your refrigerator, washer, and dryer, make up a large portion of electricity demand.  When buying new appliances, be sure to pay attention to energy labels in addition to the price tag.  For example, our energy efficient refrigerator uses on average the same amount of electricity as leaving a 60-watt incandescent bulb on all day.  Pretty impressive, right?
6. Invest in SOLAR! It can be the gift that keeps giving.  With rebates, tax incentives, and Solar Renewable Energy Credits in Massachusetts, a solar installation can be one of the best investments you make.  You will be saving money long after the panels are paid for.  With quickly escalating energy costs, it’s often a no-brainer.

Brightstar Solar can help you make clean, green solar electricity and do your part to reduce greenhouse gases in Massachusetts.  Our company offers a complimentary solar evaluation so you can decide if solar power is right for your home or business.  Rebates are not for “do-it yourself” projects and you must involve a licensed Massachusetts solar installer.  Please contact us online or at 617-564-0050 to schedule an appointment.