Green Compass

Helping you find your way to sustainable living!

Want to learn more about what programs or resources you may be eligible for?

The central point of contact for the Green Homes Program is a Community Navigator, a member of our staff who can help you along the path to sustainability.

The Navigator is here to help assess residents' needs and connect them to existing programs they may benefit from. The Navigator can also help individuals complete program applications and provide referrals to partner organizations for additional support.

They can also provide outreach to help teach your neighborhood, club, church, HOA, or other group about sustainable practices and programs.

Recent legislation and increased government funding, such as the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding, have created many opportunities for residents to save money on things like:

energy efficient appliances
converting to renewable energy, like solar panels
electric vehicles & chargers
energy conserving home improvements
sustainable practices

Contact a Navigator Today to Learn More!

Contact Tiara Lester, Sustainability Program Administrator
TLester@FrederickCountyMD.gov

Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE)

DSIRE is the most comprehensive source of information on incentives and policies that support renewable energy and energy efficiency in the United States.

CleanEnergy.gov (White House)

Find out what programs and incentives are available to you and sign up for updates about the Inflation Reduction Act.

Inflation Reduction Act Guidebook

This guidebook provides an overview of the clean energy, climate mitigation and resilience, agriculture, and conservation-related investment programs in President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, including who is eligible to apply for funding and for what activities.

1. Unplug electronics when not in use!

A plasma TV left plugged in costs an estimated $159.76 annually. A game console left plugged in costs an estimated $25.73 annually. Left plugged in, a laptop costs an estimated $15.90 annually.

2. Install a low-flow shower head to achieve up to 60% in savings!

Showers use less hot water than baths; also consider taking shorter showers.

3. Use cold water in top-loading washing machines.

Using cold water can save up to $63 a year and detergents formulated for cold water get clothes just as clean!

4. Turn down the temperature of your water heater to 120 degrees (warm setting).

You will not only save energy, you will reduce the risk of scalding.

5. Use ceiling fans and other fans to cool off.

Ceiling and other fans provide additional cooling and better circulation so you can raise the thermostat and cut down on air conditioning costs.

6. Turn off lights when not in use!

The average household dedicates 11% of its energy budget to lighting. Wasted energy is wasted money.

7. Wash only full loads of dishes, air dry and use cold water (if possible).

If washing dishes by hand, do larger piles at a time and remember not to leave water running in between.

8. Use curtains and shades during the summer.

Windows account for 10%-25% of your energy bill. During the summer your air conditioner must work harder to cool hot air from sunny windows. Use curtains or shades to give your air conditioner and energy bill a break.

9. Switch your lighting to CFL's or LED's.

CFLs (Compact fluorescent lamp) use 75% less electricity than incandescents, last up to 10 times longer and can save you up to $65 over the life of the light bulb.

10. Pump up your tires.

Properly inflated tires improves gas mileage by 3%!

Looking for more ways to save green and go green? Want to get recognized for the actions you're taking? Join the Green Homes Challenge to help your household along the path to sustainability and connect with others along the way!

*Tip Information is from the Maryland Energy Administration EmPOWER Program*