Update to how well 25 by 25 has done through 2021!

 Last summer, I reported that Prospect Park residents had brought our natural gas usage down by 6.62% since 2019.  

I heard from CenterPoint Energy recently and the numbers have actually been adjusted to 7.27%!   Woohoo!   

I asked what the numbers were for Minneapolis as a whole and the answer was 4.75%   That means that Prospect Park is decreasing our carbon footprint at a pace 50% faster than the rest of the city!  Double woohoo!

Thanks to everyone who participated!

We'll find out how we did in 2022 at the end of the summer (2023).  


Answers to a recent "25% by '25" question

I've already insulated my house as much as possible and gotten a high efficiency furnace.  What else can I do?

Great question!  And good for you for cutting down your carbon footprint!

1) When it's time to replace your gas hot water heater, replace it with an electric one.  While upfront costs will be more, operating expenses will be less.  The overall cost is basically the same.  (Reach out to environment@prospectparkmpls.org if you would like the financial analysis.)

This could cut your gas usage by as much as 13%.

2) When it's time to replace your central air unit, consider a heat pump.  It will cost a few thousand more, but you will be able to heat your home more affordably in early winter and spring with electric powered heat.  

Plus, tax credits are available through the Inflation Reduction Act.

3) Be an ambassador for the 25 by 25 initiative at National Night Out in August.  

The reality is that we need to reach folks one by one and NNO is a perfect time for that.

If interested, please reach out to us at environment@prospectparkmpls.org.

Mary Britton, Environment Committee