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With winter in full effect, it is a great time to learn about the residential energy efficiency home improvement program of the Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance. Available to all homeowners in Hamilton, Boone, Kenton, and Campbell counties, the Energy Alliance provides reduced-cost energy assessments, a roadmap for energy efficiency improvements, and financial incentives. You can also help “Green Cincinnati Education Advocacy” celebrate the energy saving improvements our team makes in the region by taking the Green Umbrella Energy Challenge and selecting “Green Cincinnati Education Advocacy” as your Green Umbrella affiliate.

In May, Ohio adopted a new residential building code requiring new homes to be more energy-efficient, be tested for air leaks and come with carbon monoxide detectors. The code is scheduled to take effect January 1, 2013. The new rules are estimated to add between $1,100 and $1,200 to the cost of a 1,800-square-foot two-story home. Homeowners can expect reductions in their utility bills, justifying the increased cost of construction. A similar code change in Boston back in 2009 found homeowners could save approximately $230 a year in energy costs with the new rules in place.