Homeowner receives energy efficiency rebate after contacting Call For Action

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kevin Carey had brand new windows installed in his Lee's Summit home in 2011.   

"We were happy with the installation,” Carey said.

He got an energy audit to make his home more efficient.  The home performance test can help Missouri homeowners get up to $1,200 in bill credits from MGE and KCP&L.

In order to get the credit, homeowners must hire a certified home auditor and implement at least one qualifying improvement.

Carey hired the auditor.  But a few days before the audit, he put down a down payment for the windows.  He expected a $400 rebate, but the utility companies denied his request.

"The window company made it out first before the auditor did.  We had to put a deposit down as a good faith so they could order the windows,” he said.

Call for Action contacted MGE and KCP&L. 

The companies explained it is important for homeowners to have the audit done first before making home improvements.  A registered energy auditor will point out improvements to help you save the most.  Often times, they say, new windows will not give the homeowner the most savings compared to insulation and duct sealing.  

"In this day and age to where everybody is needing every dime and we were banking on getting this rebate back, it's kind of disheartening,” Carey said. 

This week, the utility companies agreed to a $400 bill credit for the Carey's windows.

Click here for more information on the energy audit and to view a list of certified auditors.