Clayton to offer free home energy audits to 25 customers starting June 23; online self‑service audit also available

Clayton's customer service and electric departments will begin offering free home energy audits to customers beginning June 23, with 25 appointment slots available that week, town staff told the council.

Customer service staff said the in-person audits include a home walkthrough, checks of filters and vents, and inspection of attic/crawl-space ducting and other features; the staff member who described the program recounted an audit that found a toilet leak that caused detached ductwork under a crawl space and said the homeowner repaired the toilet and ductwork after the audit. The town will email customers about the program and send a short informational video.

In addition to the in-person audits, the town launched a free self-service online energy-audit tool on its customer-service website. Staff said the tool asks customers to enter home details (size, age of windows/doors, HVAC type) and returns estimated daily and monthly energy usage along with recommended efficiency measures.

Why it matters: Staff and Mayor Jody McLeod framed the program as consumer education that may help residents manage bills: McLeod encouraged customers to sign up and suggested expanding the program if demand warrants. The in-person audits are limited to 25 slots in the initial rollout and staff encouraged early sign-ups.

Discussion vs. decision: The announcement was informational; no formal council action was required. Town staff said they will push the online tool and an email notice to customers and monitor uptake; the mayor suggested expanding the number of in-person audits in future years.

Ending: Staff asked residents to watch for the email and sign up; the town will report back on program participation and outcomes.