Energy Audit Surprise Yields a Big Opportunity for Savings

​By Sara Vinson, Sustainable Newton Co-Founder & Secretary

This year, we're highlighting Newton County residents who have used Inflation Reduction Act tax credits and rebates, most of which end this year. We call these individuals our Sustainable Stars. They have used the incentives to increase household energy efficiency and transition to clean energy.

Our fourth and final Sustainable Star for 2025 is Nancy Schulz. Nancy is a wife, mother, and grandmother who has served Newton County as a former commissioner and continues to lead through civic engagement. She is a past president and dedicated member of Sustainable Newton, where she chairs the Waste Reduction and Diversion Committee. She also currently serves on the board of Newton County Tomorrow.  We asked Nancy some questions about her efforts to improve her home's energy efficiency. ​

What inspired you to start with a home energy audit, and what did you learn from the process?
Honestly, had it not been for having an energy audit, I would not have known that I had NO insulation in the roof or walls of my office. I learned about the home energy audit through Sustainable Newton. Frankly, when I heard Sara Vinson speak about her energy audit experience, I thought, "why not". Interestingly, my home was inspected 2 years prior and the home inspection did not reveal the missing insulation because my office is in a space technically considered an auxiliary space.

How did the Inflation Reduction Act tax credits and rebates influence your decision to move forward with spray foam insulation?

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