A Different Approach to Affordability
Instead of starting with equipment, GHU starts with impact.
They focus on the improvements that deliver the most energy savings for the lowest cost—then align those projects with available rebates.
“We really try to focus on those that have the most to gain,” said Kevin Kane of GHU.
That often leads to one overlooked area: Basements.
Many older Wisconsin homes have already had attic insulation added over the years. But basement walls, especially in pre-1990 homes, are often left uninsulated.
That gap creates significant heat loss.
By targeting those areas, GHU can:
- Achieve meaningful energy reductions.
- Keep total project costs within rebate limits.
- Minimize what customers need to pay out of pocket.
Making Projects Possible—Not Just Affordable
Through IRA Home Energy Rebates and Focus incentives, GHU structures projects so that costs are covered upfront as much as possible.
The result:
- Many income-qualified customers pay between $1 and $100 total.
- Projects that once felt unrealistic become possible.
- Households with the highest energy burden can participate.
By combining smart project design with available funding, GHU removes the biggest barrier—cost.
Incentive amounts vary based on eligibility, home, and project scope.
Real Impact in the Home
The results are not just financial—they are deeply personal.
In one case, a homeowner with a respiratory condition was living without cooling during the summer, relying on open windows even during periods of poor air quality.
After the upgrades, including insulation and a heat pump system:
- The home stayed comfortable year-round.
- Indoor air quality improved.
- The homeowner no longer needed to rely on open windows.
She paid just $1 for the project.
Scaling Impact Across Wisconsin
Since launching IRA-supported projects, GHU has rapidly expanded their business.
- More than 400 households served, many with multiple projects.
- Workforce growth from 12 to 30 employees in just over a year.
- Expansion into new markets, including La Crosse.
The team also:
- Built a new electrical division.
- Trained staff in advanced building performance certifications.
- Partnered with HVAC contractors to deliver full home solutions.
This growth has created a steady pipeline of work while allowing the company to serve more communities.
A More Focused Way to Grow
For GHU, the program has simplified how they approach projects.
Instead of offering every possible upgrade, they focus on:
- The highest impact improvements.
- Projects that align with rebate thresholds.
- Homes with the greatest need.
That consistency makes it easier to train staff, deliver projects efficiently, and scale operations across regions.
“It’s made us more resilient to changing market conditions,” Kevin said.
Advice From the Field
For contractors, Kevin sees a clear opportunity: Focus on what delivers the most impact and align it with available funding.
For homeowners, the message is just as simple: Do not assume it is out of reach.
Many of the households GHU serves did not expect to qualify but were able to complete upgrades once they explored their options.
Start with a Clear Path
Energy upgrades do not have to be overwhelming—or unaffordable.
Focus connects you with trusted IRA Registered Contractors who identify the most impactful improvements, help reduce upfront costs through incentives, and guide you from assessment to installation.
Check your eligibility and see how much support your home may qualify for.
