Empowering Homeowners to Reduce Energy Expenses and fight Climate Change

Transforming Awareness into Effective Energy solutions

Selina Tobaccowala once noticed her daughter placing notes around the house reminding everyone to “turn off the lights.” This simple gesture highlighted a larger issue: small reminders alone are insufficient to curb energy waste. After stepping away from her previous venture, Gixo, Tobaccowala sought a new mission centered on sustainability and making a tangible climate impact beyond everyday habits.

Understanding Consumer Behavior to Tackle Energy Inefficiency

Without formal expertise in climate science or engineering, Tobaccowala drew upon her deep knowledge of survey methodologies developed during her tenure as president and CTO of SurveyMonkey.By surveying thousands of homeowners nationwide, she uncovered a common frustration: many people received alerts showing their energy use was higher than neighbors’, yet lacked clear guidance on how to lower their bills effectively.

The Challenge: Awareness Without Clear Next Steps

“homeowners often get notifications about excessive energy consumption but don’t know what practical actions they can take,” Tobaccowala noted. This disconnect between awareness and actionable advice inspired the launch of HomeBoost-a platform designed to equip users with extensive tools for evaluating home energy performance.

The Innovative HomeBoost Assessment Kit

The centerpiece of HomeBoost’s offering is the BoostBox-a compact kit delivered directly to customers that includes an infrared camera and blacklight paired with an easy-to-use mobile app. Guided by this app,users conduct walkthroughs identifying heat leaks through thermal imaging while detecting inefficient lighting via ultraviolet light inspection.

Personalized Insights Based on Location-Specific Data

The accompanying app processes collected information automatically, generating customized reports recommending cost-saving upgrades such as enhanced insulation or switching to LED bulbs. It also incorporates local utility rebates and government incentives so homeowners can optimize both savings and environmental benefits tailored specifically for their region.

A More Accessible Alternative Compared to Customary Audits

Even though many utility companies provide home energy audits aimed at reducing consumption-frequently enough supported by regulatory mandates-the quality varies significantly. some consumers feel pressured into expensive HVAC replacements rather than receiving impartial advice suited for their unique circumstances.

Tobaccowala emphasizes that HomeBoost offers an affordable solution priced at $99 per assessment-approximately one-quarter the cost of conventional professional audits-and grants users greater versatility regarding timing and openness throughout the process. Collaborations with utilities like central Hudson gas & Electric and Omaha Public Power District further reduce costs; for example, Omaha residents pay just $19 after subsidies from their provider.

Catering Both To DIY Enthusiasts And Certified Professionals

Acknowledging that not every homeowner prefers hands-on involvement-and recognizing auditors who deliver valuable services without sales pressure-HomeBoost has developed a professional edition of its app. This version enables certified auditors to efficiently gather data digitally over extended visits while producing detailed reports for clients seeking expert guidance.

Fostering Collaboration Among Stakeholders To Accelerate Climate Action

An upcoming feature will connect homeowners directly with vetted contractors capable of implementing recommended improvements based on BoostBox assessments. This streamlined approach benefits contractors by providing upfront project details while simplifying access for homeowners seeking trusted professionals who can enhance home efficiency effectively.

“Bringing together consumers aiming for lower bills, utilities promoting conservation incentives, and contractors delivering solutions creates a dynamic ecosystem driving meaningful reductions in carbon emissions,” explains Tobaccowala.

The Broader Impact: driving Sustainable Living Through Technology Integration

The residential sector accounts for nearly 20% of total U.S.energy consumption according to recent Department of Energy data; innovations like HomeBoost have immense potential in accelerating efficient technology adoption across millions of households nationwide.
This model demonstrates how combining user-pleasant technology with strategic partnerships transforms individual efforts into collective progress against climate change challenges-all while easing financial pressures faced by families across America today.