Energy-saving grants available to Machesney Park residents

• Retrofit Home Program supplements purchases of energy-efficient appliances

From press release

Machesney Park homeowners will have an extra incentive to save energy, thanks to a grant funded by ComEd and awarded by the state that offsets the purchase of energy-saving measures including lighting, air conditioners, dishwashers and furnaces. The announcement was made at a news conference Aug. 27 with officials from Machesney Park, ComEd and the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA).

Programs that help customers reduce energy costs through efficiency of equipment are more important than ever. These programs enable customers to save money and help the environment by cutting energy use immediately,

says Paul Callighan, external affairs manager, ComEd.

The $64,000 grant funds the Machesney Park Retrofit Home Program, which assists in the cost of making homes more energy efficient. For example, income-eligible residents can receive supplements of $700 toward an Energy Star refrigerator, $425 for a dishwasher, $400 for a window air conditioner, and $2,500 for thermal envelope improvements.

Every little bit helps, and these supplements are a big help,

says Machesney Park Mayor Tom Strickland.
The additional dollars allow people to purchase energy-efficient appliances that will result in lower electric bills. This is especially helpful in these difficult economic times,

he added.

This is the second year Machesney Park has received the grant. In the first year, the Village awarded $20,608 to 16 homeowners who purchased Energy Star appliances and other energy-efficient measures for their homes. In addition, homeowners in the HomeForward Program spent $10,568 toward these appliances, with IHDA contributing $20,146 for a total economic impact of $51,322 for Village homeowners.

To apply for the Retrofit Home Program, residents must complete an application form at Village Hall. Applications are now being accepted; last date to apply is Friday, Sept. 18.

On behalf of Governor Pat Quinn and the state, the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) is proud to partner with 14 Illinois communities, including Machesney Park, to help approximately 100 homeowners across Illinois lower their energy bills,

said Illinois Housing Development Authority Executive Director DeShana L. Forney.
State programs and developments that encourage energy conservation and green building initiatives are a priority under Illinois’ annual comprehensive housing plans.

The grant is funded by ComEd and administered by the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) and Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).

For more information, contact Karen Lemmons, Community Development director, Village of Machesney Park, at (815) 877-5432.

From the September 9-15, 2009 issue