Residents of upstate New York have benefited from energy efficient upgrades to their homes thanks to PUSH Green, a community-based program funded by People United for Sustainable Housing (PUSH Buffalo) and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).

According to The Buffalo News, the initiative – launched in 2012 – works to reduce electricity bills, promote sustainability and make houses more comfortable for the people who inhabit them. After receiving a complimentary home energy assessment, homeowners are given reasonable options for how they can cover the costs of eco-friendly upgrades. 

After Rachelle Moses, a representative from PUSH Green, came to their home to tell them about the program, Denis and Mary Uminski were able to implement changes to make their three-bedroom Colonial less drafty and more energy efficient. The couple told the source that they were convinced after the thorough energy audit that they needed to do something. The upgrades – which included sealing windows and doors and blowing wood cellulose insulation into the walls – have made the house much warmer and reduced the couple's monthly utility bills. 

"Rachelle was great. She was on hand for at least one of the energy audits, and checked the house and my daughters' homes while the work was being done," Denis said. "They're not only selling you on the program, but they're following up. You have the assurance that you're not the only one dealing with your contractor. If there was an issue I didn't see, Rachelle would see it."

If you're interested in making eco-friendly upgrades to your property, it may actually be more affordable than you think – and the long-term savings almost always make it worthwhile. To get started, contact a home inspection contractor to request an energy audit.