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.

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

Our third Sustainable Star for 2025 is Jay Lanners. Jay is a retired IT professional who lives on a small farm in Newton County. We asked Jay some questions about his decision to purchase a Ford F-150 Lightning truck, his experience transitioning to an EV, and what advice he has for others considering an EV purchase.

How long have you had your F-150 Lightning, and what made you decide to make the purchase?
I’ve had it about two years. I love technology, and I need a truck for my lifestyle. The F-150 Lightning is a great match for me.

​How did the Inflation Reduction Act incentives influence your decision?

​Our first Sustainable Star is Eve Mullen. Eve is an associate professor of religion at Oxford College of Emory University. Since completing a home energy audit in 2023, Eve and her husband, Florian Pohl, who joined the Sustainable Newton board this year, have been taking steps to make their home more energy efficient. In December 2024, Eve took advantage of the IRA’s $7,500 new-EV rebate, to purchase her first electric vehicle, a Chevy Equinox, from Ginn Chevrolet in Covington. We asked Eve some questions about making the leap to an EV.

What made you decide to purchase an electric vehicle?
I had been looking at EVs for some time. It's an environmentally friendly way to get around, and my family wanted to do our part by cutting emissions.

​How did the Inflation Reduction Act incentives influence your decision?