Neighbors Powered by Energy Efficiency
Neighbors Powered by Energy Efficiency
September 29, 2025 Climate Change, Energy Efficiency, Home
October 1st, 2025 is Energy Efficiency Day, but for Community Energy Project (CEP), this is a priority year-round. Improving energy efficiency helps families save money, stay safe and healthy at home, and cut carbon emissions.
One of the most impactful ways CEP makes energy efficiency accessible is by installing heat pumps, which regulate a home’s temperature by efficiently transferring heat in or out depending on the season. Recipients of heat pumps or heat pump water heaters save approximately $300 per month on utility bills and reduce their carbon footprint by two tons annually. But energy efficiency isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about how people feel at home.
Take Robert Thomas, a father of five, who used to rely on electric space heaters and a window AC unit during extreme weather. Through CEP’s Healthy Homes and Community Heat Pump Deployment programs, Robert’s family received a brand-new ducted heat pump system.
“Our electric bills skyrocketed to over $700 per month – devastating for a family on the lower end of median income,” said Robert. “CEP understood our financial constraints and installed a brand-new ducted heat pump system that has completely transformed our home's comfort and monthly expenses. Our energy bills have dropped significantly from those crushing $700+ payments while providing reliable heating and cooling for all five family members.”
Seniors living on fixed incomes are also benefiting. Nancy Richardson received a ductless heat pump and other energy-saving upgrades, cutting her energy costs in half.
“CEP didn’t just improve our home – they gave us comfort, lower bills, and a renewed sense of hope,” said Nancy.
Neil M., who once relied on a single large electric heater with no cooling system, shared a similar story.
“The transformation has been incredible. My home is now comfortable year-round; my energy bills have dropped significantly, and I have peace of mind knowing that serious health and safety issues have been addressed.”
For Nani, safety and stability were at stake. With the support of 56 community volunteers, CEP replaced her roof, added insulation, and installed two ductless heat pumps.
“I will be able to live in this home feeling secure and comfortable because the services CEP is doing are a lasting improvement, so it makes a big difference,” said Nani. “I won’t have to worry about the house becoming distressed or being displaced with nowhere to go. They’re giving me a sense of security.”
Heat pumps – along with the other free energy efficiency resources CEP provides – make comfort, affordability, and safety a possibility for all of our neighbors. Join our newsletter and connect with CEP on LinkedIn to stay connected, hear more stories like these, and support systemic change alongside our clients.
