Efficiency Navigator Program

What Is the Efficiency Navigator Program?

The Efficiency Navigator Program provides no-cost technical assistance and coordination to eligible property owners to identify and implement energy efficiency and electrification upgrades.

The program is administered by Sustain Dane in partnership with Elevate Energy and is funded through the City of Fitchburg’s Affordable Housing Fund.

Program Goals

The Efficiency Navigator Program supports Fitchburg’s housing and sustainability priorities by:

  • Preserving naturally affordable housing

  • Reducing utility costs for residents

  • Improving health, comfort, and safety in rental housing

  • Lowering greenhouse gas emissions from older buildings

  • Supporting long-term housing stability for low- and moderate-income households

Eligible Properties

The program focuses on:

  • Small to mid-sized multifamily rental buildings (2–16 units)

  • Properties that provide naturally occurring affordable housing (NOAH)

  • Buildings located within Fitchburg, with priority given to designated Healthy Neighborhoods

  • Owners willing to maintain rents at or below HUD Fair Market Rent for at least five years following improvements

What Improvements Are Supported?

Typical upgrades may include:

  • Weatherization and insulation

  • Heating, cooling, and ventilation improvements

  • Water heating upgrades

  • Energy-efficient appliances

  • Window improvements

  • Electrification measures such as heat pumps

  • Health and safety issues addressed through energy upgrades (such as gas leaks or ventilation concerns)

How the Program Works

Outreach & Intake
Eligible property owners are invited to participate and complete an intake process.

Energy Assessment
A professional assessment is conducted to identify cost-effective efficiency and electrification opportunities.

Recommendations & Prioritization
Measures are prioritized based on:

  • Resident utility savings

  • Greenhouse gas reductions

  • Health and safety considerations

Implementation
Approved upgrades are coordinated with qualified contractors, with payments managed through the program administrator.

Reporting & Results
The program tracks energy savings, cost reductions, and overall outcomes to inform future housing and sustainability efforts.

Cost to Property Owners

There is no cost to apply for the program. Funding for assessments and approved improvements is provided through the City, subject to available funds and City approvals.

The program also helps property owners and residents access available state and federal rebates and tax credits, including incentives related to recent federal energy programs, when applicable.

Why This Matters

Older affordable housing typically uses more energy than newer market-rate housing. By investing in efficiency improvements, the Efficiency Navigator Program helps:

  • Reduce household energy burdens

  • Preserve long-term affordability

  • Improve quality of life for residents

  • Strengthen Fitchburg’s climate resilience

Interested in Learning More?

City of Fitchburg
Loreen Gage, Housing Initiatives and Program Specialist
Phone: 608-270-4249