A Minnesota homeowner's solar panels coupled with a decade of driving electric vehicles have saved him nearly $40,000, according to a City of Bloomington profile.
He is now helping other residents understand how to make their existing homes more comfortable and efficient.
Here's what to know
Steven Hong, a Bloomington resident and real estate agent with 23 years of experience, teaches "High-Performance Housing," a course on upgrades to existing homes.
Seventeen years ago, Hong began using solar panels.
His experience with solar and electric vehicles has shaped his approach to household energy improvements.
"An older home doesn't have to be an inefficient home," Hong explained. "With the right improvements, we can make the homes we already have more comfortable, more efficient, and better prepared for the future."
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More background
A heat pump dryer, an induction stove, and other electric equipment were among Hong's additions to his former Minneapolis home, according to the City of Bloomington.
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Those projects gave him firsthand experience with changing both how a home produces electricity and how it uses energy.
He is currently exploring improvements for his new home in Bloomington.
Public sessions of "High-Performance Housing" are part of Hong's plans for Bloomington Community Education.
His teaching experience already includes classes for real estate professionals.
What can be done?
The City of Bloomington recommends an energy audit as a starting point for homeowners unsure which step to take.
The assessment's findings will help with choosing improvements based on where the home consumes energy and where it escapes.
For homeowners considering the solar side of Hong's approach, EasyHome can help you curate competitive bids from local installers and compare options for your property.
Homeowners looking beyond solar can also explore battery storage options through EasyHome. Pairing panels with batteries helps manage electricity costs and provides backup power during outages — considerations for anyone evaluating how an upgrade could serve their household.
"You don't have to do everything at once. Start with the things that make the biggest difference, learn how your home works and improve it one project at a time," Hong advised.
Where can I learn more?
Other homeowners have explored solar to charge their EVs and manage household energy costs. These stories cover EV charging, system sizing, and battery backup planning.
• A California homeowner's 52-panel off-grid solar system powers two EVs, air conditioning, and a well.
• A California DIYer found that solar-powered EV charging costs 2.3 cents per kilowatt-hour.
• A Minnesota homeowner wanted affordable solar before batteries, but commenters urged them to prioritize backup power.
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