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RHODE ISLAND (WBZ NewsRadio) — Homeowners in Rhode Island looking to branch out and save on energy bills may be interested in a state program that began accepting applications on Friday.
The R.I. Department of Environmental Management said they are open for applications for their Energy-Saving Trees Program, where residents are given free trees to plant on their property. The program came as a partnership between the R.I Tree Council, the R.I. Nursery and Landscape Association, and the Arbor Day Foundation, and with funding provided by the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, state officials said.
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RIDEM said that trees that are planted in the right locations can save homeowners money on their energy bills, as they provide natural shade in the summer and wind blockage in the winter. Officials said that a single tree can save a homeowner up to 20 percent on energy costs.
"Planting trees in your neighborhood can improve air quality, capture carbon, and help with storm water flooding," said United States Congressman for R.I.'s Second District Jim Langevin.
After entering their location, registrants can use an interactive tool on the state's website to select a tree that is best suited for them. The state said that the trees are about four to six feet tall and come in three-gallon containers, in traveling size that will fit in most vehicles.
Interested R.I. homeowners can find more on the program here.
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