Elevate Launches Campaign to Advance Energy Affordability For All Through Building Electrification and Clean Energy Solutions

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – Today, Elevate is proud to launch a new campaign aimed at promoting energy affordability for all through an equitable transition to building electrification. This educational campaign will highlight how clean energy solutions, like heat pumps, community solar panels, induction stoves, and weatherization, can reduce utility costs, improve indoor air quality, and open the door to career opportunities in the growing clean energy economy.  

Electrification means replacing fossil-fuel-powered systems (like gas stoves and furnaces) with high-efficiency electric alternatives that are healthier and more affordable. Through organizations like Elevate, families living in low-income communities may qualify for low cost-savings upgrades, helping close energy gaps.   

“Clean, affordable energy should be available to everyone, but as energy prices increase energy efficiency, distributed generation and demand response programs become even more important.  And the good news is that deploying these solutions creates high quality local jobs.” says Dr. Anne Evens, CEO of Elevate. “Energy efficiency makes homes safer, more affordable, and helps communities thrive. We must ensure that everyone has access to these technologies. This means connecting with the communities most impacted by high energy burdens, and making information, upgrades, and career opportunities accessible to all.”   

«We are proud to support Elevate’s efforts to connect families with resources that could help them save on utility costs,» said Angela Tovar, Chicago’s Chief Sustainability Officer and Department of Environment Commissioner. «Expanding clean energy and energy-efficiency solutions is a critical component of Chicago’s Climate Action Plan. By promoting and increasing awareness of these solutions, we can help reduce the energy burden that so many households bear and ensure that all communities benefit from the transition to a clean energy economy.» 

As energy bills increase, so does the demand for skilled workers. Through Elevate’s contractor and workforce programs, anyone can receive hands-on training, certifications, and a clear path toward well-paying careers in the clean energy sector. We also provide contractors who are already working in the trades with the support they need to successfully complete electrification projects and grow their businesses.   

Gerald Jones, a homeowner in Chicago who worked with Elevate to have his home electrified and upgraded, said the renovations have been life-changing. His home was built in 1955 and needed some upgrades to remain comfortable. What started as a simple insulation upgrade evolved into a comprehensive home electrification project, which included new insulation, a high-efficiency electric furnace, upgraded electrical service, a new washer, dryer, and stove, as well as solar panels on the roof.  

“There are no breezes now; it’s just comfortable,” says Jones. “There’s not so much dust in the house, now that I have an air filter and humidifier, and that really makes a difference for my health. The money I’m saving is also something to be grateful for. I’m saving money and I’m helping save the planet. It’s a win-win.”