The Clean Energy Generation is making progress every day here in the Southeast. From EV drivers saving on fuel as gas prices climb to plug-in solar slashing utility bills as energy costs soar, our clean energy future is becoming a reality…and saving us money along the way. Take a look at just six of the many ways clean energy is lowering bills across the Southeast.
Energy Efficient Upgrades Save Low-Income Homeowners Money
June Spring’s old propane furnace, window A/C units, and lack of insulation make it almost impossible for her to keep her 100-year-old home at a comfortable, or even safe, temperature. That is changing thanks to Rebuilding Together of Greater Charlotte, which provides free energy efficient upgrades to low-income homeowners. By adding insulation, caulking, and proper HVAC systems, the nonprofit increases residents’ comfort while lowering their utility bills. Read more.
Small Solar Bring Big Savings on Utility Bills
Small solar panels are generating big annual savings. As utility bills skyrocket, small plug-in solar systems are saving renters and homeowners up to $400 a year on their utility bills. A fraction of the cost of large rooftop solar systems, plug-in solar typically pays for itself in just two to five years. And they can be plugged directly into a standard wall outlet — no contractor required. Read more.
Save Families $300 Annually
Through its popular EnergyRight program, TVA rebated an astounding 10,000 heat pump water heaters in Q4 of 2025 alone. Two to three times more energy efficient than electric resistance water heaters, heat pump water heaters can save families up to $300 per year on their electric bills — making them a win for their wallet and their home. Read more.
Electric School Buses Drive Down Electric Rates
Green is the new yellow. In addition to slashing carbon emissions, reducing fuel costs, and giving kids a cleaner ride to school, electric school buses are driving down electric rates — even for those who never use them. By spreading costs across more electric customers and primarily charging during off-peak times, electric school buses can reduce energy costs for all consumers. Read more.
LED Lights Boost Small Businesses’ Bottom Line
A brighter bottom line. Nashville Electric Service has partnered with the Tennessee Valley Authority’s EnergyRight program to bring energy efficient lighting upgrades to small businesses across the city. Because they use less energy than incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, energy efficient LED lights can save participating small businesses money on both their energy bills and maintenance costs. Read more.
EV Drivers Save as Gas Prices Climb
“Really easy and smooth.” As the price at the gas pump continues to climb, gas car drivers are looking to save money on fuel. But one Kia EV6 driver recently took a road trip from South Carolina to Louisiana…and spent only $30 “filling up” on electricity. As the car charged, they “ate, relaxed, used the bathroom, and shopped without any problems.” Read more.
Follow along each week
These stories highlight just a few of the positive things happening in our area! Every day, we see signs of hope. The Clean Energy Generation is creating a future powered by clean energy that leads to clean air and water, good jobs, and vibrant communities.
Would you like to see more stories like this? We’ve got just the thing for you! Every Thursday, we share the latest clean energy news on Instagram with #CleanEnergyNews. Join us as we celebrate the progress and signs of hope in the clean energy transition.
Join the Clean Energy Generation
Together, all of us who are taking action are part of the Clean Energy Generation movement. We’re coming together to create healthier communities and a more secure and sustainable environment, starting now. No matter your age, income, zip code, or abilities, you can play a role. You don’t have to have the answers; learning more is a great way to start. Join us, and we’ll share ideas, resources, tools, and practices to show how we can all be part of the transformation.
