Energy initiative aims to lower utility costs for Laurel residents

A regional energy initiative is expanding into Laurel, offering residents a comprehensive set of services designed to reduce utility costs, improve home efficiency, and strengthen overall community safety.

The effort is part of “Project Safe Neighborhoods,” a multi-faceted program led by the HELP Initiative that combines energy efficiency upgrades with public safety measures, education, and community outreach. The initiative was presented to town officials during a council briefing outlining a coordinated plan to address high energy burdens and neighborhood concerns. 

Charlie Kistler of the HELP Initiative described the program as an opportunity to bring immediate relief to residents while building long-term stability. “Everyone here is entitled to energy measures that are installed at no cost to the residents,” he said, emphasizing that the program is designed to reach households most affected by rising utility costs.

At the core of the initiative is a home energy checkup program, where certified energy specialists conduct walk-through assessments to identify inefficiencies and install improvements on the spot. These upgrades include LED lighting, water-saving aerators, efficient shower heads, and insulation for water heater pipes—all provided at no cost to qualifying residents. 

Beyond indoor improvements, the initiative also focuses on outdoor safety through its “Lights-ON Delaware Strong” component. The program installs high-efficiency exterior lighting on homes to brighten neighborhoods and deter criminal activity. According to program data, more than 38,000 lights have been installed across over 20,000 homes, generating hundreds of thousands of dollars in annual energy savings while contributing to safer communities. 

The initiative’s broader mission extends beyond energy savings. It integrates public health and emergency preparedness efforts, including distributing safety kits with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, providing health information, and helping residents register for emergency response systems such as Smart911. More than 1,500 health and safety kits have already been distributed statewide, reflecting the program’s holistic approach. 

Education is another key component. Residents are guided through emergency planning, including evacuation strategies and medical information tracking, while also being connected to additional assistance programs. These may include community solar opportunities that can reduce electric bills by as much as 20 percent, as well as state-supported relief funds for income-qualified households.

Program leaders say the initiative is also designed to rebuild trust and strengthen relationships between residents, local government, and service providers. By partnering with faith-based organizations, nonprofits, and local agencies, the program aims to increase engagement and ensure services reach those who need them most. 

Town officials have expressed interest in collaborating with the initiative, with early phases focusing on outreach, enrollment, and installation efforts beginning this spring. The plan also includes workforce development opportunities, creating local jobs in weatherization, home performance, and energy-related trades.

Kistler noted that the long-term impact goes beyond lower utility bills. “Lowering that energy, improving public safety, providing education,” he said, underscoring the program’s goal of creating safer, more resilient neighborhoods.

If implemented fully, Project Safe Neighborhoods could provide Laurel residents with not only immediate financial relief, but also a sustainable framework for energy efficiency, public safety, and community empowerment, Kistler said.