Marisol Genao, a resident of Cypress Hills, Brooklyn, benefitted from the EnergyFit program which upgraded her home with energy-efficient improvements at no cost. The program focuses on retrofitting small buildings in Brooklyn neighborhoods and aims to make homes more comfortable, reduce carbon emissions, and lower utility bills. EnergyFit addresses issues in older homes and helps homeowners navigate the process of transitioning away from fossil fuels. The program has completed work on 12 homes so far, with plans to expand and measure the impacts of the upgrades.
**Experience the Benefits of Energy Efficiency Upgrades in Brooklyn, NY with EnergyFit Program**
For over 20 years, Marisol Genao, a resident of Cypress Hills, Brooklyn, had been dealing with various issues in her century-old brick rowhouse. From flickering lights to slow water heating, she faced several challenges due to the age of her home. However, in August, her situation changed when she became a beneficiary of the EnergyFit program.
EnergyFit, initiated in 2024, is a collaborative effort by the Pratt Center for Community Development, Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation, and IMPACCT Brooklyn. It aims to upgrade and retrofit two- and three-family homes in select Brooklyn neighborhoods over a two-year period. The program addresses common issues in older homes and helps homeowners transition towards energy efficiency and sustainability.
The program covers the costs of upgrading electric panels, installing heat pump water heaters, replacing faulty appliances with energy-efficient models, and sealing windows for improved insulation. These upgrades not only enhance the comfort of homes but also contribute to reducing carbon emissions and utility costs. The holistic approach of EnergyFit includes addressing health and safety hazards, such as mold, lead paint, and gas leaks, to create healthier living environments.
With a focus on small buildings, EnergyFit serves households that may have limited resources to invest in home improvements. By providing free assessments, repairs, and installations, the program aims to make energy-efficient upgrades accessible to homeowners who might otherwise struggle to afford such improvements. The ultimate goal is to create more sustainable and resilient communities while improving the overall quality of life for residents.
The success of EnergyFit lies in its personalized approach to each property. The team conducts thorough assessments, identifies specific needs, and tailors solutions to address the unique requirements of each home. By also assisting homeowners in navigating complex processes and securing additional resources, EnergyFit ensures that no household is left behind in the transition towards a greener future.
The impact of EnergyFit goes beyond just energy savings. By upgrading homes with modern, efficient technologies, the program enhances the overall living conditions for residents. From improved air quality to reduced energy consumption, the benefits of these upgrades extend to both the homeowners and their tenants, creating a more sustainable and eco-friendly living environment.
In a city like New York, where older buildings contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, programs like EnergyFit play a crucial role in advancing sustainability goals. By targeting smaller residential buildings that often lack access to efficiency initiatives, EnergyFit fills a gap in existing policies and regulations that primarily focus on larger structures.
As EnergyFit continues its mission to retrofit and upgrade homes in Brooklyn, more residents like Marisol Genao and Constance Dawson are experiencing the positive outcomes of energy efficiency improvements. Through a combination of targeted upgrades, education, and support, the program is paving the way for a more sustainable future for communities across the city.
If you are a homeowner in Brooklyn looking to enhance the comfort, efficiency, and sustainability of your home, consider exploring the benefits of the EnergyFit program. Take the first step towards a greener future and join the movement towards energy-efficient living in your neighborhood.
Source: TheCity.NYC
