A movement towards High Country energy democracy

150 people gathered for a group photo with a banner saying "Our time to rise."

More than 150 people gathered in February to discuss what their local energy utilities should be doing to address the climate crisis and create renewable energy jobs in the NC High Country. Transparency from our utilities and participation in decision-making is even more important as we face the current pandemic.

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Reports show need for energy efficiency financing in western NC

Contacts: Rory McIlmoil, Appalachian Voices, 828-262-1500, rory@appvoices.org Amber Moodie-Dyer, Appalachian Voices, 828-262-1500, amber@appvoices.org Daniel Kauffman, ResiSpeak, 919-812-5657, dk@resispeak.com BOONE, N.C. — Two reports released today by Appalachian Voices show how effective home energy efficiency improvements can be for saving families money and the tremendous customer demand in western North Carolina for accessible, upfront financing to…

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Energy efficiency success in western N.C.

We’re taking a moment to step back and celebrate a significant milestone in our Energy Savings for Appalachia program. Just a few days ago, Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corp. launched a financing program that enables eligible members to make energy efficient home improvements now, and repay the co-op on their monthly bills over time. It’s a win-win for residents, local economies and the environment.

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High Country residents speak up to save energy

BRE CEO 2Appalachian Voices joined with numerous others this month in asking Blue Ridge Electric co-op to help its members save money and make their homes healthier and more comfortable by financing home energy-efficiency improvements. At the co-op’s annual meeting, CEO Doug Johnson said his team is considering offering debt-free financing for upgrades including home weatherization.

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Two historic homes get some TLC energy

eliza-home-energy-contestMeet two families in the High Country of North Carolina who paid extraordinarily high electric bills and still suffered from drafty homes—until they won energy efficiency home improvemetns in Appalachian Voices’ contest.

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