Shira and Ari Evergreen were in a bind. Their fuel oil tank sprung a leak so they couldn’t buy heating oil for the coming winter unless they invested $2,000 in a new tank. Eager to get off of oil to a less expensive, less polluting heating system, the couple started to explore their options. The Evergreen family of four qualified for a $10,000 grant from the EmPower NY program, which, along with utility incentives, would cover the cost of a new energy efficient heat pump system for their small home in rural upstate New York. But, due to water damage in their ceiling, they were not approved for the grant.

With only a couple of space heaters to keep them warm, the Evergreens felt stuck and worried for their two young children. There were no programs that covered the cost of roof and ceiling repairs, although eventually, the Evergreen family was able to get the needed repairs done. They then secured grants that paid for a heat pump system and a heat pump water heater to be installed. Later, they purchased an induction stove and are now happily living in a healthy, cozy, all-electric home.

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