Go Green

Did you know that more than 40% of America's carbon emissions come from heating, cooling, lighting and operating buildings? In neighborhoods characterized by unique, historic homes, that percentage is even higher. It is important that homes are retro-fitted to increase their energy efficiency, reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, and shrink the community’s carbon footprint.

Go Green Nashville is an initiative to reduce Nashville’s energy consumption by 5%. Homeowners and businesses in Nashville’s urban neighborhoods are encouraged to undergo an NES In-Home Energy Evaluation to decrease their power usage and to save money.

Sustainable building practices are becoming popular in Nashville. Green and eco-friendly homes are being built all around us. However, to see a real impact, we must retrofit our existing building stock. NES, in partnership with TVA, provides homeowners with an In-Home Energy Evaluation to learn areas of their home that need improvement. Recommendations might include new insulation, sealing ductwork, caulking, and replacing heat & air systems.

The In-Home Energy Evaluation is $50, which is refunded if the homeowner does $50 of the recommendations. Additionally, the cost of retrofitting is reimbursed 50% up to $500. And of course, homeowners will see reductions in their energy bills as a result of the retrofit.

Go Green Nashville is a focused initiative designed to produce measurable results in Nashville’s urban neighborhoods. In November 2009, the campaign was launched in District 18. A year of grassroots marketing led to over 250 sign-ups for In-Home Energy Evaluations. Since the beginning of this campaign there have been more than 350 sign-ups for In-Home Energy Evaluations (IHEE) throughout Davidson County.

This neighborhood prototype proved so successful that a challenge was issued by founding Metro Councilmember Kristine LaLonde. In the spirit of friendly competition, all of Nashville’s urban neighborhoods are challenged to Go Green. Districts 6, 7, 17, 19, 24, 25 and 34 have all responded and joined the campaign. Other neighborhoods are expected to respond to the challenge in the coming months.

To participate in Go Green and sign up for an NES In-Home Energy Evaluation, click HERE.