Energy Efficiency

Why energy efficiency?

With energy use in buildings representing over 60% of South Bend’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, this area represents the largest opportunity for greenhouse gas reduction in the city. The many benefits of energy efficiency include:

• Environmental: Increased efficiency can lower GHG emissions and other pollutants, as well as decrease water use.
• Economic: Improving energy efficiency can lower individual utility bills, create jobs, and help stabilize electricity prices and volatility.
• Utility System Benefits: Energy efficiency can provide long-term benefits by lowering overall electricity demand, thus reducing the need to invest in new electricity generation and transmission infrastructure.
• Risk Management: Energy efficiency also helps diversify utility resource portfolios and can be a hedge against uncertainty associated with fluctuating fuel prices. (Source: EPA)

What does it look like in practice?

Energy efficiency in buildings starts with a clear and comprehensive appraisal of a property’s current energy usage, whether for homes, apartments, businesses, or factories. Energy efficiency assessments are the basis for identifying opportunities for energy and cost savings from weatherization, system replacement, process improvement, fuel switching, or other measures.

What can I do to increase energy efficiency?

Apply for the Energy Assistance and Solar Savings Initiative (EASSI)

In partnership with IFF and CDFI Friendly South Bend, EASSI brings financial and technical support to nonprofit organizations that wish to increase energy efficiency, generate energy savings, and go solar.

Nonprofit and community institutions may apply for the Energy Assistance and Solar Savings Initiative (EASSI) here.

Learn more about our local utilities’ energy efficiency offerings

In South Bend, local utilities offer home energy assessments, rebates for high-efficiency HVAC equipment, income-qualified weatherization services, and other energy-saving tips to reduce energy bills for residents and businesses. Learn more through the links below.