Free Home Energy Audits Now Available to Income-Qualifying Households

WINNESHIEK COUNTY, Iowa -- The Winneshiek Energy District is excited to announce a new program offering free comprehensive home energy audits to income-qualifying households in Decorah and Winneshiek County. This initiative is designed to help residents reduce their energy bills, improve home comfort, and identify practical steps toward energy efficiency and home upgrade opportunities. Thanks to recent grant funding, homeowners and renters can receive a detailed home energy audit at no cost. The assessment includes a thorough inspection of the home's insulation, heating and cooling systems, lighting, and appliances, and includes a blower door test to assess air leakage. Participants receive a personalized report outlining recommended improvements, potential savings, and opportunities to make their homes healthier, more comfortable, and more energy-efficient. "An energy audit can identify cost savings that aren't always apparent," said Paul Cutting, energy auditor for Winneshiek Energy District. "Reducing air infiltration and increasing insulation levels can lower energy costs by upwards of 25%, resulting in real savings." To be eligible for a free energy audit, households must have incomes less than 150% of area median income, or about $112,000 for household of two. Full details, including eligibility requirements and how to apply, are available at https://energydistrict.org/services/comprehensive-energy-assessment/