Energy programming has a long history at UF/IFAS and has been integral in shaping best practices for building code in Florida. Since 1999, the “Energy Efficient Building Construction in Florida” book (EEBCF) has served as a resource to promote energy efficiency in new home construction, providing professionals with essential guidance for energy-saving building practices. It’s a critical reference guide for contractors, architects, and builders working to meet Florida’s energy and construction standards.
While the EEBCF continues to be an important resource for Florida home construction, support for energy-saving efforts in existing homes was still needed. In response, UF/IFAS launched the Florida’s Resource for Efficiency, Affordability, and Community Health Program (REACH).
The REACH Program is designed to empower communities with knowledge and resources by supporting energy efficiency, water savings, and economic development across Florida. Aligned with UF/IFAS Extension’s goals and the broader objectives of the IFAS Pathways and Initiative 4, the program aims to equip county Extension agents with the tools and expertise to foster energy-efficient practices, reduce costs, and enhance community well-being.
The REACH Program was developed as a partnership between UF/IFAS Extension, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) Cooperative Extension, the Florida Energy Extension Coalition (FEEC), and the Community Weatherization Coalition (CWC).
In 2024, the REACH Program focused on community education and resource distribution through four key programs: the In-Home Tune-Up Program, Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Energy & Water Efficiency Kits, HomeFlow Program, and Home Energy Efficiency Backpack Program. These were tailored to maximize local engagement and deliver measurable results, including energy and water savings and long-term community benefits.
Selected through a competitive process, Extension agents in 15 counties across all five IFAS districts received specialized energy training that equipped them to act as local leaders in promoting energy-smart practices. Feedback from these sessions highlighted their practicality and value, with agents reporting increased confidence in implementing and expanding energy initiatives.
A standout achievement of 2024 was the Energy Tune-Up Event held in Volusia County in June. This community-focused event engaged over 200 residents in hands-on demonstrations of energy-saving practices. Participants reported an increased understanding of actionable techniques, with early evaluations indicating measurable reductions in household energy consumption.
Building on the successes of 2024, the REACH Program is set to expand its presence in additional county Extension offices across Florida. A key initiative for 2025 involves the rollout of kits tailored to various energy programs. Designed for flexibility, the kits will enable agents to offer both hands-on interventions and self-driven options. Through these resources, residents will gain access to tools and guidance to reduce energy use, improve efficiency, and lower utility costs.
The REACH Program aims to raise its public profile by increasing community awareness and strengthening relationships with local partners. The program will also refine its educational methods to ensure they remain engaging, accessible, and impactful. By leveraging participant feedback, integrating innovative tools, and adapting to emerging trends, REACH will continue to meet the evolving needs of Florida’s residents.
Through these initiatives, the REACH Program is committed to expanding its impact, equipping county Extension agents and Florida communities with the tools and knowledge needed to address residential energy challenges effectively.
