Article Summary –
The Efficiency Navigator program in Dane County collaborates with rental property owners to improve energy efficiency in multifamily homes, reducing environmental impact and energy costs without burdening renters. The program, targeting properties affordable to residents at or below 80% of the area median income, covers 100% of renovation costs, such as insulation and HVAC improvements, which helps property owners like Peter Tan and Rachel Durfee maintain affordable rents. By focusing on sustainability’s “triple bottom line” of people, planet, and profit, the program aims to create sustainable communities and a long-term positive impact on both the environment and economy.
A Dane County initiative is collaborating with rental property owners to enhance energy efficiency in multifamily homes, aiming for environmental sustainability and reduced energy costs, benefiting renters without additional costs.
The Efficiency Navigator, managed by Sustain Dane, has been assisting small- and medium-sized apartment buildings in Madison, Middleton, and Fitchburg for five years, according to Claire Schaefer Oleksiak, the executive director.
“Lowering energy expenses makes living in these units more affordable,” Schaefer Oleksiak stated. “Upgrading to energy-efficient systems also decreases CO2 emissions in the community.”
The program frequently aids building owners in improving insulation and HVAC systems, reducing renters’ energy bills. With utility costs rising in 2025, residents could face more increases this year.
“Renters may find initial costs seemingly affordable, but high utility bills can challenge their budgets,” Schaefer Oleksiak explained.
Last year, the Efficiency Navigator served around 200 residents. Peter Tan and Rachel Durfee utilized the program for their Madison property, constructed in 1964 with eight units.
Tan noted drafty windows were a long-standing issue. Durfee said replacing them was financially challenging.
“We saved for years, trying to make financial sense of it,” Durfee noted.
Keeping rent affordable was crucial, leading them to apply for the program, which targets multifamily homes affordable to residents below 80% of the area median income.
“This program was a game changer, ensuring funds for other building needs,” she mentioned. “The building needed updates.”
Durfee was relieved, noting the upgrades didn’t spike rents. The building also received improved insulation.
The process starts with an application, followed by a building assessment for efficiency improvements. The program then evaluates funding to prioritize impactful projects.
“We select measures and involve contractors, covering 100% of costs,” Schaefer Oleksiak stated.
Beyond affordability, environmental concerns matter to Tan. He learned about the program at a Sustain Dane breakfast event focused on environmental, social, and economic sustainability. He referenced the triple bottom line of sustainability: people, planet, profit.
“Owning the building for 30 years, this program helps us support tenants long term,” Tan concluded.
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