GRU’s LEEPplus delivers free home upgrades to low-income residents, fuels local economy

Press release from Gainesville Regional Utilities

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – As summer approaches, the application process remains open for GRU’s Low-income Energy Efficiency Program Plus, which helps low-income customers reduce utility costs while supporting area businesses. Since its inception, LEEP^plus has invested $9.7 million into the community and provided essential home upgrades to more than 2,400 households at no cost to participants.

Originally launched in 2007, LEEP^plus provides eligible low- and fixed-income households with free home improvements designed to lower energy use and improve living conditions. Upgrades can include HVAC system replacements, water heaters, insulation, smart thermostats, and other efficiency measures tailored to a home’s needs.

“For some customers, these upgrades are transformative, restoring essential systems like air conditioning and providing consistently cool, dry, and clean indoor air,” said Belina Meador, residential efficiency program coordinator II at GRU. “This is especially critical during our increasingly hot and humid summers, where safe indoor conditions can significantly impact health and well-being.”

Beyond residential benefits, LEEP^plus serves as an economic driver for the Gainesville business community. All work is performed by a network of 27 approved local contractors, ensuring the program’s annual investment stays within the local workforce.

The application process itself is structured to emphasize education. After approval, customers receive vouchers redeemable with participating local businesses. Contractors complete the work, and GRU verifies installation quality while working with residents to help them better understand their energy usage and efficient home practices. Contractors are then compensated by GRU.

“For Fiscal Year 2026, LEEP^plus plans to serve 100 customers,” Meador said. “To date, 72 applications have been approved, with nearly one-third completing the full process.”

Since its launch, LEEP^plus has served 2,414 households, representing nearly 2.5 million kilowatt hours in first-year energy savings. GRU customers interested in applying for the program can find more information at gru.com/LEEP.