Thanks to grant funding from the Clean Energy Districts of Iowa and the Upper Mississippi Gaming Corporation (UMGC), the Clayton County Energy District (CCED) is now offering free Home Energy Audits and Personalized Energy Coaching to income-qualifying households in Clayton County.
Grant support from UMGC has also allowed CCED to expand their energy auditing toolkit, including the addition of a blower door system used to measure air leakage in homes. Eligible households include those at or below 150% of area median income. For specific income guidelines and program details, visit claytoncounty.energydistrict.org.
These energy services help identify ways to reduce energy costs, improve home comfort, evaluate clean energy options, and optimize overall energy use.
“We’re excited to bring these services to Clayton County households,” said Kelsi Davis, CCED Coordinator. “Energy costs represent a real burden for many families, especially in older homes. By providing free energy audits and personalized coaching, we’re helping people take practical steps to improve comfort, reduce bills, and make confident decisions about their homes.”
A Home Energy Audit is a detailed, data-driven assessment of a home’s energy performance. Using diagnostic tools such as blower door testing and infrared imaging, CCED’s technical team evaluates the home envelope, heating and cooling systems, appliances, and overall efficiency. Participants receive a personalized written report with recommended improvements, along with support to help move forward with energy upgrades.
Personalized Energy Coaching provides homeowners with guidance tailored to their goals, timeline, and budget. Coaching sessions help develop a clear roadmap for prioritizing energy improvements and making informed decisions.
To get started, homeowners can complete a simple sign-up form on CCED’s website. Once submitted, an energy coach will follow up to schedule either a phone consultation or an in-home visit, depending on the requested service.
CCED’s energy coaching team includes Jacob McGreal and Mitch Anderson. Jacob, a Loras College engineering graduate, brings hands-on experience in construction and whole-home performance, including building his own home. Mitch, owner of Anderson Electric Service, is a master electrician licensed in two states and brings extensive experience across residential energy systems and trades.
CCED has a strong track record of delivering energy services through partnerships with Green Iowa AmeriCorps, including First Step Home Energy Audits and Energy Coaching for nonprofits and Main Street businesses. These efforts have created measurable local impact, notably with RISE Ltd. in Elkader (for the full story, visit CCED’s website).
By focusing this program on low- and moderate-income households, CCED is addressing an aging housing stock and limited access to affordable energy sources in rural communities. Helping households lower energy costs retains resources for essentials such as food, healthcare, and childcare, while keeping more dollars circulating in the local economy.
