TVA launches efficiency program

Nov 24 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Catherine Godbey The Decatur Daily, Ala.

Calling all financially or environmentally motivated individuals -- a new federally operated program offers potential cost and energy savings.

Created by the Tennessee Valley Authority, the In-Home Energy Evaluation Program could save local customers $500 in home improvements.

TVA is implementing the year-long pilot program in nine of Alabama's 17 utility companies, including Decatur Utilities, Athens Utilities, Hartselle Utilities and Joe Wheeler Electric Membership Corp.

As part of the program, designed to promote conservation, TVA-certified evaluators examine customers' homes and search for energy-saving opportunities.

"It costs customers $150 for an evaluation but if they implement improvements, they could get the $150 back and up to $500 in reimbursements," said DU Electric Manager Glenn Boyles.

Spend at least $150

Customers will receive the initial fee if they spend at least $150 in recommended improvements, said Athens Utilities General Manager Gary Scroggins.

For customers spending more than $300, TVA will cover half of the expenses. Projects available for reimbursement range from replacing windows and installing attic, floor or wall insulation to air sealing and duct repair.

The program is part of the agency's energy-efficiency and conservation initiative to reduce peak demand in the Tennessee Valley by 1,400 megawatts, more than a nuclear reactor at Browns Ferry generates. Officials hope to meet the goal by 2012.

During the pilot program, which ends Sept. 30, TVA hopes to reach 157 DU customers.

"This is a good program that will benefit our customers financially," said DU General Manager Ray Hardin.

DU expects to begin implementing the program in January. In Athens and Hartselle, the utility companies are ready to start performing evaluations. Joe Wheeler Electric Customer Services Manager Traci McKelvy estimated Joe Wheeler Electric will activate the program within the next month.

In-home energy efficiency program contacts

Hartselle Utilities customers, call 773-3340.

Athens Utilities customers, call 233-8750.

Joe Wheeler Electric customers, call 552-2300

For more information about the program go to www.tva.com/ee/n_home_eval.htm.

CATHERINE GODBEY