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 This year, we told you about Phase One of Energy Work and our partnership with PNM to help low-income homeowners improve their energy efficiency. Phase One consisted of upgrading lighting, power strips, aerators, and weather stripping on windows and doors in 50 homes. Of those 50 homes, 35 also qualified to receive new refrigerators at no cost.
Additional work in those homes has begun with a focus on gas efficiency and safety by upgrading hot water heaters, furnaces, and providing whole-house insulation. This work was slated to begin in mid-March just as the COVID-19 pandemic arrived in New Mexico and our partner, Central New Mexico Housing had to close. They are now operational, and the parent leaders at the Partnership for Community Action are busy getting them into the installation queue. The need for this work is more important than ever, and so far we have completed 100 of the 300 homes planned for this year. In order to qualify for these services at no cost, residents must have a household income that falls under 200% of poverty or about $44,000 for a family of four. The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed financial inequalities that have been evident to us for years. Now with many of these families experiencing job and income losses, the cost reduction that comes with energy efficiency retrofits could not be more important. Once both gas and electric work has been completed, families will see a reduction in their utility bills of up to 50%. All of this work could not be completed without Prosperity Works’ partnerships with the Partnership for Community Action, PNM, and Central New Mexico Housing. Funding has been provided by the New Mexico Zone Grant Funders and the Turner and Energy Foundations. We believe that the business model that we have created to reach those most in need may be replicated statewide, and is critical to reaching the state’s climate goals. With many New Mexicans living at or below the poverty line, we must do all we can to ease their financial burden, and open new pathways for opportunities for them and their families. Stay up to date with our ongoing energy work by following on Facebook and Twitter. |
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