Nonprofits Go Green is an app created by the Commonwealth Green Low-Income Housing Coalition (an initiative of Dismas House of Massachusetts) that helps low-income housing nonprofits lower utility costs and carbon output by accessing new clean energy tools from Massachusetts and other providers. CGLIHC initiatives have led to lower energy costs for housing providers, freeing up resources that can be reallocated to programming or new housing for clients in need. CGLIHC also advocates and educates for better energy policies for low-income housing.

Here are just some of the ways that nonprofits can implement green energy solutions to lower their operational costs.

Building decarbonization is a strategic approach aimed at reducing or eliminating carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from the built environment. This concept involves transforming buildings to lower their carbon footprint, which is crucial for combating climate change and advancing toward a net-zero carbon future.

Participating in Community-based Solar programs has never been easier. Join the growing community of area green nonprofits when you purchase power through solar providers, often at a discount! Solar energy significantly reduces carbon emissions and can produce savings on your monthly energy bill. Put those savings back into your program budget!

Combined with whole-building measures, nonprofits should consider tuning up, upgrading, or right-sizing their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment. High-efficiency HVAC systems can be optimized for specific operations, are quieter, and require less maintenance than outdated models.

Water conservation efforts can lead to direct cost savings through reduced water bills and energy expenses, as well as indirect savings by reducing maintenance and infrastructure costs. Additionally, it can positively impact your brand image, minimize environmental costs, and ensure compliance with regulations, all of which contribute to a more cost-effective and sustainable operation.

We are offering Emporia Level 2 car chargers. They can be plugged into a 14-50P NEMA outlet or hardwired directly to a dedicated dual-pole breaker. Staff, volunteers, and clients may connect and charge at your location. Request a an EV car charger through our contact form:

In response to the pandemic, CGLIHC expanded the scope of our work to create the Healthy Buildings Initiative. This work includes distribution of over 100 air filtration systems to congregate housing organizations

Food composting, whether through green cone systems, or your own system, can create savings and help lower environmental impacts.

Replacing fluorescent bulbs with LED options can save you up to 20 percent of your energy bill while maintaining high-quality lighting. According to Mass Save light–emitting diode (LED) bulbs use 80–90 percent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. They are more durable, lasting 15–25 years or more, and they usually don’t burn out or fail abruptly, but instead slowly fade out over years.

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