TVA offers virtual home audits for homeowners during pandemic

As temperatures rise and more people continue to spend more time at home utility bills can rise as well. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is helping homeowners safe energy and money right from their phone.

“And this was something new that we just added. We were working on this before the situation became worse with COVID-19, but when that occurred we hurried up and got it out there to be able to do it", says senior manager with TVA, Frank Rapley.

The Tennessee Valley Authority launched their virtual home audits in early June for some parts of Tennessee, but now it is offered widely across the state.

The energy evaluations give homeowners tips and resources to save money and energy, especially during hot summers.

“It’s a good time to be able to control your energy costs and this is way they can get information about what to do when they are home and able to do that while they are spending a whole lot more time in their home", Rapley adds.

Rapley says the virtual aspect still allows them to do their job while making residents feel safe during this pandemic.

"Folks, don’t really want us going into their homes while cases are still out there and this is a way that we can continue to do that, continue do that work in a very safe manner.”

During the virtual home audit the advisor went through ways to save energy through items like appliances, windows, lighting, and the HVAC system.

Rapley says they will continue to offer virtual home assessments and even try to add more features for the future. Imani Williams, for 39 News, in Jackson.