With concerns rising about threats to both the environment and inflation rates, it’s never been more important to seek out home appliance solutions that can address both. One appliance that has seen remarkable technological advances in the last few years is the lowly water heater. This article was shared by Theo Powers from Service Force Plumbing and he wants you to know that when it’s time to replace or upgrade your water heater, consider a heat pump water heater because it's a smart choice economically and an investment in a more sustainable future for the planet.

Check out the infographic to see what we have accomplished since 2017. Montgomery Energy Connection was created to be residents' link to energy savings and to help the County reach its goal to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions 80% by 2027 and 100% by 2035. In five years and with over fifty partners (and counting), we have been able to provide in person and virtual presentations, Home Comfort Kits, and LEDs galore. Not to mention that amount of money that has been saved because of this program - $1.7 million dollars in energy savings alone! 

Another FeBREWary came and went and this year, we kept the momentum of Electrify Everything, where we focused on celebrating, electrifying, and help residents keep money in your pockets. These events were not only informative but fun as well! 

Weatherization is the process of protecting a home or building from the outside elements. Often this means insulating the home to reduce the effect of extremely hot or cold outdoor temperatures on indoor spaces. Weatherization includes air sealing, plumbing, recessed lighting, replacing doors, windows and insulation in walls, and the installation of energy-efficient heating, cooling, and lighting systems. These changes improve thermal comfort and lower energy bills.

DEP spoke with Craig Pardini, CSAAC’s Director of Infrastructure Operations, about their numerous solar installations. The ground-mount system at the Jane Salzano Center for Autism provides 100% of electricity for the 37,000 square foot building and 10 residential group homes. With their current solar systems and three new systems in the works, most of CSAAC’s locations will be powered by offset by the energy from the sun, freeing up money that can be used throughout CSAAC in other program areas.

We talk about heat pumps a lot. But despite all of that hot air, there’s a key thing about them that many people still don’t know they’re actually air conditioners. NOT getting a heat pump to cool your house in the summer is like paying for a combo meal but only taking the burger—the cost is about the same, so why wouldn’t you get the fries and soda with that? Plus, you have IRA $ to put towards it. Hold the ketchup,read more about this now.

Electrify MC is a pilot program to help single family homes replaces combustion appliances (fueled with natural gas, propane or oil) with all-electric versions, like like heat pumps and hot water heaters. Through this pilot, we will have a HELP DESK available via phone (301-830-5767) and email and we will provide point of sale grants for the installation of new equipment. Take the pledge now, Electrify MC Pledge, to receive program announcements and to be connected to the County’s selected electrification installer, Elysian Energy.

On August 30, 2023, we closed the Capital Area Solar Switch program. This was the third year that jurisdictions around the DC area came together to encourage residents to go solar. In total, we had 465 residents across, D.C., Maryland and Virginia accept their initial offer in this program and of that number 280 have signed their contracts and are getting solar installed on their roofs!

In the heart of Montgomery County, the community solar array at Paddington Square is more than just a collection of panels: it’s illuminating a future where clean energy is accessible to all. The 273 kW solar installation generates energy to serve 91 households with clean energy, including 28 income-qualified Empowered households who are able to receive no-cost SharePower subscriptions.

Get ready for colder weather ❄ by making sure you have enough insulation in your attic! Learn how you measure your insulation levels from the experts at ENERGY STAR. You can receive a substantial tax credit for insulating your attic? Thanks to incentives in the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, you can save 30% of your total project cost, up to $1,200.

Homeowners are being offered accessible financing for energy-efficient appliances through a targeted, local collaboration between Montgomery County Green Bank (MCGB) and the Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC). With funding from the Green Bank, LEDC is offering a new loan, the LEDC Appliance Loan, to help homeowners purchase brand-new, eco-friendly appliances.