Brooklyn Homeowners Receive Assistance to Go Green
In the bustling city of Brooklyn, where every corner tells a story, a group of homeowners are experiencing a transformative journey towards sustainability, thanks to a groundbreaking program called EnergyFit. This initiative, launched in 2024, is the brainchild of the Pratt Center for Community Development, Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation, and IMPACCT Brooklyn, funded by a mix of federal and private dollars.
Marisol’s Story: A Tale of Transformation
Meet Marisol Genao, a 48-year-old pharmacy technician who has lived in her century-old brick rowhouse in Cypress Hills for over two decades. Despite the charm of her historic home, Marisol faced daily challenges like flickering lights, slow hot water, and a faulty gas stove. These issues, common in many older homes, were a constant reminder of the need for upgrades.
In August, Marisol’s life took a positive turn when she became part of the EnergyFit program. Through this initiative, her electric panel was upgraded, a heat pump water heater was installed, and her gas stove was replaced with an induction one. The team also sealed her windows to ensure optimal temperature control throughout the year. Marisol’s joy knew no bounds as she shared her excitement with colleagues, highlighting the profound impact these changes had on her daily life.
Empowering Communities, One Home at a Time
EnergyFit aims to repair and retrofit 70 two- and three-family homes in select Brooklyn neighborhoods over a two-year period. These homes, often facing maintenance issues, are in communities where residents may lack the financial means to address them, let alone transition away from fossil fuels. The program’s staff serve as dedicated case managers, guiding homeowners through the intricate processes involved, coordinating with tenants, and setting the stage for future upgrades.
Rebekah Morris-Gonzalez, director of climate initiatives at Pratt, emphasizes that the program’s impact extends beyond carbon reductions. It’s about enhancing household health and comfort, creating a ripple effect that goes beyond energy efficiency.
A Custom Approach to Sustainable Living
Every home under the EnergyFit program undergoes a tailored assessment to identify specific needs. From electrical upgrades to plumbing repairs, lead paint inspections to energy efficiency enhancements, each property receives meticulous attention. The team also addresses potential hazards like mold, asbestos, and gas leaks, ensuring a safe and sustainable living environment for residents.
Through the installation of energy-efficient appliances, improved insulation, and upgraded electrical systems, EnergyFit paves the way for a greener future. The switch to induction stoves, in particular, not only enhances air quality but also reduces harmful emissions associated with traditional gas stoves.
Joining the Green Movement
In a city where skyscrapers dominate the skyline, EnergyFit is championing sustainability at the grassroots level. By focusing on small buildings and overlooked communities, the program is bridging the gap between ambitious citywide initiatives and individual homeowners. As Ryan Chavez, director of small homes programs, emphasizes, the goal is to ensure that all homeowners, especially those in lower and middle-income brackets, are not left behind in the transition to renewable energy.
Through stories like Marisol’s and Constance Dawson’s, who noticed significant improvements in their homes post-EnergyFit interventions, the program is not just transforming buildings—it’s changing lives. As these homeowners embrace a more sustainable lifestyle, they inspire others to join the green movement, one step at a time.