Here’s a typical post-war house. Windows: Single pane, aluminum frame. Wall insulation: R-11 at best. Ceiling Insulation: R-19 at best. Ventilation: none. Foundation insulation: none. In short, this is not an energy efficient home, and neither are the hundreds of thousands like it across the country. Given the housing crash, it is unlikely to receive an equity loan for upgrades. Given the economy, its owner could be facing reduced salary or unemployment, further decreasing the odds of improvement.

Meanwhile, the government is spending billions to help out corporations.

Of the people, by the people, and for the people. Shouldn’t the focus be on the people, not the corporations?

That’s what I like about this article. It makes a compelling counter-proposal to stimulate our economy, helping corporations by directing stimulus to individual households.

Nutshell: Government provides banks with funding for energy efficiency upgrades to existing homes. This will boost home values, tax revenues, construction employment, renewable energy manufacturing and homeowner savings.

Estimated return on investment: fourteen fold, and the stimulus pays for itself in the long run.

Great idea. Great example of how investing sustainably is also investing wisely.

Thanks, George, for the link.