programs for homeowners
As a homeowner there are many programs in Oak Park that can help you invest in your home and save money on utilities, reduce housing emissions, and help fight climate change!
Read below to see the programs that you are eligible for.
community solar
Clean, convenient, carbon-free electricity
Step 2:
Community solar
Use clean energy - no solar panels needed
If you use electricity, you can sign up for community solar. This is a great way to save money and support clean energy - without the expense of installing solar panels at home.
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Your subscription will help solar farms generate clean, reliable solar power. Some community solar offers even save you money by earning a discount on your electricity bill. Learn more and find a community solar offer here (link is external).
Step 1:
energy assessment
Your energy journey starts here
A professional assessment identifies the most effective and affordable ways to save energy and money. Local utility companies are offering the Home Energy Savings Program (external link).
The program offers a free basic review of your home's energy use, and a personalized report that identifies ways to save energy and money. Expect to also enjoy free installations of energy-efficient light bulbs, programmable thermostats, hot water pipe insulation, and water-saving shower heads and aerators. Deeply discounted energy saving appliances are also available.
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Fee-based energy efficiency technical assessments are also available from local contractors. A technical assessment includes detailed testing and analysis of your building's energy systems. Learn more here and here (external links).
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Note: The Village of Oak Park does not endorse or promote individual contractors.
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Step 3: weatherizatioN
Airtight homes for maximum savings
Up to 20% of a home's heating and cooling energy is lost due to poor insulation. Weatherization involves stopping air leaks around doors, windows and ventilation systems and using insulation to make homes safer, more comfortable, and more energy efficient - saving you money. Every dollar spent on weatherization saves almost three dollars on energy bills.
You may be eligible to receive free weatherization services through CEDA (external link). You may also be eligible for free weatherization services through ComEd's Home Energy Savings Program (external link).
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Step 4:
energy efficiency
Use high-performing equipment to save money over the long-term
Energy efficient appliances and equipment lower the amount of energy that your home uses on a daily basis. It's an upfront investment that saves you money on every energy bill.
Local utility companies have partnered to offer the free Home Energy Savings Program (external link). Qualified homeowners can receive free energy efficiency home improvement services. Call ComEd at 855-433-2700 to determine if you qualify.
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The Village of Oak Park offers weatherization and energy efficiency grants of up to $10,000 for eligible homeowners. Funding is limited, and grants are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. To apply for an Oak Park Energy Grant, contact the Development Customer Services Department's Neighborhood Services Division at 708-358-5410.
rooftop solar
A long-term investment to become more resilient to climate change
Rooftop solar and other improvements can make your home more resilient to extreme weather. Installing clean energy at your home also helps the whole community take action on climate change.
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Learn about your home's solar potential and financing options through Project Sunroof (external link).
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Solar Switch Chicagoland is a program that will save you money on a rooftop solar power system. (external link).
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Illinois Shines is a State program that supports residents who would like to install solar at their home. Learn more here (external link).
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Federal tax credits may also be available. Learn more here (external link).
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Note: The Village of Oak Park does not endorse or promote individual contractors.
Geothermal energy
A long-term investment to become more resilient to climate change
Geothermal energy systems use heat pumps that move heat from the ground to your home or from your home to the ground. They also provide efficient water heating.
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Learn about Grow Geo Chicagoland, a program that will save you money on a geothermal heat pump system.