CEE is working with Wisconsin’s Focus on Energy on a pilot program in rural Wisconsin that will reward local charities when households in the community take energy efficiency actions at home.
CEE developed an innovative new approach to residential energy efficiency that is being tested in two rural communities in Wisconsin. The Save to Give Challenge is supported by Wisconsin’s Focus on Energy, whose mission is to empower the people and businesses of Wisconsin to make smart energy decisions with enduring economic benefits. Homeowner apathy has always been a difficult hurdle for energy efficiency programs. Despite the benefits of using, and paying for, less energy, homeowners frequently lack the motivation to make and maintain even small changes around their homes that can add up to big savings.
Rural communities are famously tight knit. Residents take great pride in the little things that make their hometowns special. The Save to Give Challenge will reward a community for coming together with donations to a popular local charity when families make small energy efficiency improvements in their homes.
Project Summary
Objective
Test whether residents will be motivated to adopt energy saving behaviors and participate in efficiency programs if saving energy has the opportunity to benefit a local charity they care about.
Scope
- Phase I – Two Communities
- Phase II – Up to Four Communities
Non-energy benefits
- Investment in local charity.
- Increased awareness of energy saving behaviors and programs.
- Financial savings to customers.