Neighbourhood Climate Concierge
Just as a hotel concierge provides guidance to the best things in town, the Neighbourhood Climate Concierge Project provides guidance to the best ways to cut greenhouse gases in your home.
Welcome to Neighbourhood Climate Concierge
Neighbourhood Climate Concierge connects community members who own single-family homes with tailored resources, information, and expertise specific to Lanark County and Smiths Falls. Our initiative supports residents in navigating and implementing climate action in their homes, empowering them to make informed decisions about sustainable practices and reduce their environmental impact.
What We Offer:
Personalized Guidance: Receive tailored advice on energy efficiency and sustainable practices.
Expert Knowledge: Stay updated on the latest trends and information regarding building and home retrofits.
Peer Support: Connect with fellow community members who care about the environment and saving money as much as you do.
Resource Hub: Access a variety of materials, including guides, videos, and local resources to help you implement sustainable practices in your home.
We’re committed to helping you create a positive impact in your community. Thank you for joining us on this journey towards a more sustainable future!
Our Journey
Since December 2022, we have been successfully running the pre-pilot for the first Almonte Cluster. Members from this group are now offering help and guidance to newcomers in the program.
The pilot program consists of groups in Perth, Lanark Village, Almonte, and a Virtual Group, each with 8 to 10 members. The pilot ran from summer 2023 to February 2024.
What’s Next?
The next iteration of the Neighbourhood Climate Concierge began in March 2025. It will continue in the existing areas of Perth, Lanark Highlands, Almonte, and the Virtual Cluster, with exciting plans to expand into Smiths Falls, Tay Valley Township, and Carleton Place.
Why Retrofit?
Investing in a healthy energy environment in your home lowers energy costs, increases your home's value, reduces maintenance requirements, and creates a less drafty, more comfortable space. Additionally, retrofitting helps reduce your greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future.
FAQ:
Program Details
Scheduling & Flexibility:
Meeting dates are chosen at the end of each session to ensure they work for everyone. If the schedule doesn’t work for you long-term, you're not locked in!
Topics Covered:
Each session focuses on practical, community-driven ways to improve home energy efficiency and climate resilience. Topics include:
Energy Audits: What to expect and how to get started
Solar Panels & Photovoltaics: Understanding the benefits and options
Emergency Preparedness: How to prepare for power outages, extreme weather, etc.
Insulation & Air Sealing: How to retrofit your home efficiently
Heat Pumps: How they work and whether they’re right for your home
Interactive Sessions:
Every session features an industry expert presentation.
Group discussions and hands-on activities are included.
Tailored to the needs of the group to ensure it's engaging and relevant.
What’s the Time Commitment?:
Each cluster meets every month for two hours at a public space in their respective urban area.
The program spans six months to guide participants through the audit process and any retrofits they choose.
We offer ongoing support, resources, and guidance throughout the entire journey.
Program Fee:
There is a one-time $25 fee to cover materials distributed during the program.
If this fee is a financial burden, please reach out—we want to make the program accessible to everyone.
Benefits of Joining a Community Cluster
Tap into funding
Build community
Gain confidence
More insight than simple internet searches
Get technical information
Understand heat pumps
Learn about local suppliers
Hear from local specialists
Share industry contacts
Meet your neighbours
Address the climate crisis head-on