One-on-one energy coaching is becoming a powerful, low-cost tool for municipalities and community groups to help residents navigate energy efficiency upgrades and decarbonization. Homeowners exploring heating and cooling systems often become overwhelmed with unfamiliar terminology and conflicting information that slows adoption and stalls climate progress.
Energy coaches -also known as heat pump coaches, decarb coaches, or energy advisors -are community members who provide unbiased, neighbor-to-neighbor guidance. They help residents understand how heat pumps work, compare technology options, identify weatherization needs, and prepare for conversations with installers. Coaches also connect residents with incentives and programs they may not be aware of. As one program in York, Maine notes, residents consistently express relief at having an informed neighbor to talk with rather than feeling like they are being sold something.”