KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Valley Authority is working to help people and businesses across the region save energy, and money, by helping them upgrade their buildings.
The EnergyRight program offers businesses a variety of financial incentives to upgrade some of the most demanding systems in buildings, such as HVAC systems and refrigeration systems. For example, the TVA said it is offering $50 for businesses that install electronically commutated motors, $200 for installing fan controllers and up to $200 per linear foot for high-efficiency food cases.
Homeowners can find a similar program to help pay for work to upgrade their homes. The TVA offers several rebate programs when homeowners connect with contractors through the TVA's network and use those contractors to upgrade HVA systems or improve home insulation. Other kinds of work can be eligible for a rebate, such as upgrading duct systems, air sealing upgrades and window replacements.
"This is a perfect opportunity to invest in your home and lower those costs for energy, and you're saving money while you’re doing it," said Scott Fiedler, a spokesperson for TVA.
The upgrades are meant to help people save energy since homes would be better equipped to handle changing temperatures. Because homes would use less energy, homeowners can also save money on their electricity bills. To claim rebates, people just need to find a contractor who works with the TVA and can complete the upgrade. Then, they just need to watch for an email from the EnergyRight program with a code to claim the rebate.
People can get around $1,500 for a new HVAC unit to be installed.
"TVA is focused on keeping your power bill low over the next five years," Fiedler said. "We're investing $1.5 billion to help you become more energy efficient."
The TVA said the EnergyRight program has helped around 342,290 residences and businesses and helped save more than 631.8 million kWh of energy. It is part of a $1.5 billion energy initiative from TVA, expected to continue through 2027.
Throughout the week and into next week, temperatures are expected to hover in the low-to-mid 90s, heating up most of East Tennessee as summer starts with a round of sweltering and dry days. To help beat out the heat and save energy, the TVA said people can close their blinds, run a fan and run appliances late at night or early in the morning.