The Sustainability InstituteThe Sustainability Institute

Home Energy Makeover Showcase

Whipper Barony Neighborhood
72% Modeled Energy Savings

“Although I love my house, it was draining my bank account.” – Gloria Daniels

Gloria Daniels struggled with energy costs of more than $400/month during peak seasons, as well as serious comfort and safety issues in her aging home. Having found no one else to turn to for help, Gloria finally found us. This home energy makeover, funded by the Wells Fargo Foundation, was a comprehensive whole-house energy upgrade. A whole-house approach looks at the entire home as a system, with interdependent parts, and recognizes the interaction of windows, attics, foundations, mechanical equipment, and all other components and assemblies within the home. By taking a whole house approach, we are able to reduce energy costs while improving comfort and indoor air quality.

Energy Efficiency Improvements

ENERGY STAR Appliances

Upgrades: Installed ENERGY STAR appliances including a washer, dryer, stove/oven, and refrigerator
Benefits: Reduced energy cost

Insulation & Air Sealing

Upgrades: Installed blown cellulose in attic to R38, attic drop down stairs and extensive air sealing
Benefits: Reduced energy waste and cost

5kW PV Solar Array System

Upgrades: Installed a 5kW PV solar array system and applied roof spray
Benefits: Reduced energy cost, extend life of roof by 10 years

Heat Pump & Rigid Ductwork

Upgrades: Installed heat pump and new rigid ductwork
Benefits: Reduced energy waste and cost, improved indoor air quality

Electric Heat Pump Hot Water Heater

Upgrades: Installed an electric heat pump hot water heater and sump pump in basement.
Benefits: Reduced energy waste and cost, eliminated flooding risk

Home Energy Monitor

Upgrade: Emporia Vue 3 Home Energy Monitor
Benefits: Tracks energy use and helps manage it efficiently to save money

Press Event Speakers

Bryan Cordell, Executive Director of The Sustainability Institute
Pamela Bryant, VP of Philanthropy and Community Impact at Wells Fargo
Stacey Washington, Clean Energy & Equity Director at the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy
Mayor Reggie Burgess, City of North Charleston

Event Photos

A special thank you to our contractor partners on this project: