CEP Partner Spotlight: Comfort Insulation Specialists, LLC

When volunteers arrived to unload shingles onto the roof of Nani Fox, a Community Energy Project (CEP) client, Ernesto Melo stopped by to check in. His crew wasn’t scheduled that day, but as the owner of Comfort Insulation Specialists, Ernesto wanted to meet Ms. Fox and personally ensure everything was ready for the next phase.

“My first goal is always to make a good impression and show clients they can trust us with their home,” Ernesto explained. That philosophy has guided his 25+ years in the industry and continues to shape his company today.

Ernesto launched Comfort Insulation Specialists in 2018 with values closely aligned to CEP’s. “I had the experience and the knowledge and wanted to help people honorably,” he said. “It feels great to help people live better, save money, and be more comfortable at home.” His team of ten shares that commitment as many of them know firsthand what it’s like to live without reliable heating and cooling. Empathy fuels their dedication and, over the years, the company has donated their services to households in urgent need.

Today, Comfort Insulation Specialists play a critical role in CEP’s PCEF projects—tackling insulation, HVAC, and energy efficiency upgrades like water heaters. The partnership has also supported the growth of Ernesto’s business into a multi-generational operation. His son, Luis, joined the team a year and a half ago, bringing bilingual skills, new technology, and a fresh home inspection certification.

Luis recalls the first CEP client he met—Nancy—whose home received insulation, bathroom fans, and a new dryer. “My dad and I really love working together and supporting CEP’s mission to build efficient and healthy homes,” Luis said.

"The impact of working with Ernesto and his family team extends far beyond the homes they weatherize,” said Jim Plantico, CEP’s In-Homes Program Director. “Their meticulous care for our clients is matched only by their commitment to building up the community. By supporting a family-based workforce, Ernesto's business is a perfect example of how targeted energy efficiency work can ripple outwards, empowering homeowners, community partners, and local families alike."

For Ms. Fox, Nancy, and all of the other clients Ernesto and his team have supported, the results are tangible: a safe new roof thanks to CEP volunteers, improved ventilation, and expertly installed insulation from Comfort Insulation Specialists. Ernesto summed it up best: “The clients give my team a smile when they say thank you—and that’s what makes it all worth it. We’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to serve our community.”