WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced the launch of the city of New Orleans’ NOLA Wise program, one of DOE’s Better Buildings Neighborhood projects. The $1.7 million initiative, funded by the Recovery Act, will allow participants to increase the comfort and affordability of their homes through energy-saving home improvements. Through DOE’s Better Buildings Neighborhood Program, 41 projects are bringing state and local governments and partnering organizations together to provide quality, affordable improvements to homes and businesses across the nation to cut energy use and reduce their energy bills.

“This program encourages New Orleans homeowners to improve the efficiency of their homes in order to save money by saving energy,” said Energy Secretary Steven Chu. “Across the U.S., programs like NOLA Wise are increasing the demand for energy-saving products and services, creating jobs, and helping families to reduce energy waste and save money.”

NOLA Wise, managed by the environmental nonprofit Global Green USA, helps homeowners through every step of the energy efficiency improvement process. Through the program, New Orleans homeowners can learn about energy efficiency, gain access to home energy assessors and nationally-certified green building contractors, and qualify for low-interest loans to make energy-efficient home upgrades. NOLA Wise also provides a project management service to ensure that homeowners receive a professional and thorough home energy assessment and quality work from approved contractors. NOLA Wise expects to expand its market from residential clients to commercial properties in its second year.