In the heart of East Lansing, David Arnosti and his family have embarked on an inspiring energy transition journey, transforming their suburban home into a model of energy efficiency and sustainability. David, a biochemist at Michigan State University, has long been passionate about environmental issues, and his latest project showcases his commitment to reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Why Make the Change?
David’s interest in renewable energy and his concern for the environmental changes driven by the burning of fossil fuels motivated him to take action. “We need to be better stewards of our planet,” David shares, “and I saw an opportunity to make our home part of that effort.” 
For David and his family, transitioning to renewable energy wasn't just about cutting costs - although it has significantly lowered their utility bills - but also about leading by example and inspiring others in the community. “Our 1970s home is now more energy efficient, and it serves as a test case for our neighbors and friends to learn from.”
The Path to Geothermal
David’s most recent endeavor was the installation of a closed-loop geothermal heating and cooling system. The project wasn’t without its challenges. “Finding a contractor willing to work in our yard took some time,” David recalls. But once the project was underway, there were some rewarding moments too. “Watching the drill rig bore three 150-foot-deep holes in our backyard was fascinating - and the looks on our neighbors’ faces were priceless!”
The system required three boreholes and a Hydron heat exchanger, replacing the family’s old gas furnace. The transformation wasn’t just technical; it was visible. “The worst part was dealing with the muddy filled-in trench, but after a season the yard was back to normal, and we gained a new garden space filled with native flowering plants.”
Overcoming Challenges and Sharing Success
As with many energy upgrades, David faced some initial obstacles, particularly the upfront costs. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), however, David was able to take advantage of a 30% tax credit, significantly reducing the financial burden. “It was still expensive, but I know that cutting our dependence on fossil fuels is a necessary step. We’ll be in this house for at least another decade, so we can enjoy the comfort and savings long-term.”
Since the installation, David’s gas bills have dropped to virtually zero, and the system has been working efficiently. He’s also become something of a local expert, hosting webinars for the Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association to share his experience. “I’ve had a lot of friends and neighbors ask about our system, and some have even installed photovoltaic (PV) systems themselves.” Recently he hosted a webinar presentation from St. Peter’s United Church of Christ in Champaign, IL which installed an extensive geothermal system for their buildings.
Advice for Others
David’s journey has been a rewarding one, and he encourages others to follow suit. “The upfront costs can be daunting, but the long-term benefits - both for your wallet and the environment - are worth it,” he says. His advice? “Do your homework. Talk to others who’ve made similar changes, and research contractors thoroughly. Every experience is different, but the common thread is that we all need to move away from fossil fuels.”
David’s story is a powerful reminder that while transitioning to sustainable energy can be challenging, the rewards far outweigh the obstacles. With federal incentives like those from the Inflation Reduction Act, making the switch is more accessible than ever.
David’s story, like so many others, demonstrates that a sustainable future is within reach - one home at a time. Explore how you can tap into the benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act to start your own journey toward energy efficiency and savings.
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