Dominion Energy rolls out various energy efficiency programs

Dominion Energy is expanding energy efficiency and conservation programs, offering various voluntary programs from weatherization assistance for low-income customers to incentives for builders.

“We’re empowering our customers with more tools and resources they need to take control of their energy use,” said Rusty Harris, vice president and general manager of Dominion Energy’s natural gas business in North Carolina. “Maximizing savings and reducing our environmental impact is what ThermWise is all about.”

Among these programs is the Residential New Construction Program, which rewards builders that construct energy efficient homes with high efficiency appliances. Dominion is also offering equipment rebates to support residential and business customers who replace older, less efficient appliances with high efficiency appliances, such as gas furnaces, smart thermostats, water heaters, and commercial cooking equipment, among others.

As mentioned, there is also a Weatherization Assistance Program, which offers free in-home energy assessments and the installation of natural gas-saving measures to income-qualifying residential customers.

Further, Dominion is offering the Home Energy Report to provide insights into customer energy use and that of similar homes, along with conservation tips and information about applicable Dominion Energy program offerings. It also has a Conservation Education Program that reaches elementary school students across North Carolina with in-school theater performances showcasing the importance of saving energy and using natural gas safely.

Finally, the company has rolled out the Discounted Gas Rate program, which provides a discounted rate to customers who receive Energy Star, North Carolina High Efficiency Residential Option, or LEED certifications for their home or business.

In addition, Dominion Energy is preparing a new voluntary program to help customers reduce their carbon footprint and support renewable natural gas projects. The proposed program would enable customers to offset carbon emissions from natural gas use in their homes by supporting projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This GreenTherm is planned to launch in mid-summer with North Carolina Utilities Commission approval.