build better big sky empowers our community with the knowledge and resources to electrify their homes and adopt sustainable building practices. By providing comprehensive guidance and support, we aim to create a resilient and environmentally responsible community.
design buildings to maximize natural sunlight for heating and lighting, with large south-facing windows and thermal mass materials to store and release heat.
use fire-resistant roofing, siding, and decking materials to reduce the risk of ignition and enhance the building’s resilience against wildfires.
use high-performance insulation materials with continuous install in walls, roofs, and floors to minimize heat loss while ensuring quality air sealing.
install electric heat pumps for heating and cooling, which are more energy-efficient than traditional propane systems and can perform well in cold climates.
equip homes with ENERGY STAR-rated appliances and LED lighting to reduce electricity consumption.
integrate solar photovoltaic panels to harness renewable energy, offsetting electricity consumption and reducing reliance on propane.
reduce irrigation frequency and improve efficiency to help decrease drastic water use, especially from July to September when irrigation water use is at its highest.
design landscapes using native, drought-resistant plants that require minimal irrigation. Use permeable hardscape when possible to reduce stormwater runoff.
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incorporate smart home technologies to optimize energy use, monitor indoor climate, and manage water usage efficiently.
Sign up for a free audit from NorthWestern Energy to identify how energy is being used in your home. Alternatively, perform your own energy audit.
Use high-performance insulation materials with continuous install in walls, roofs, and floors to minimize heat loss while ensuring quality air sealing.
Replace lawns with native, drought-tolerant plants and defensible space to drastically cut down on irrigation needs.
Update your schedule and inspect the system to ensure efficiency. Convert spray irrigation systems to drip irrigation. Install weather-based smart controllers and/or rain sensors.
Replace propane heaters with high-efficiency electric heat pumps for both heating and cooling, significantly cutting energy use.
Retrofit homes with fire-resistant materials and vent coverings to reduce vulnerability to wildfires. Don’t know where to start? Invite Big Sky Fire Department for a wildfire home assessment.
Air seal windows and doors. If necessary, replace old, single-pane windows with double or triple-glazed, low-emissivity windows to improve thermal performance and reduce energy loss.
Retrofit roofs with solar photovoltaic panels to generate renewable energy and reduce dependence on propane and grid electricity.
Integrate smart thermostats, energy monitoring systems, and water meters to optimize energy and water use, and provide real-time data for better resource management.
build better big sky is a coalition-driven initiative led by the Big Sky Sustainability Network Organization (SNO) in our mission to achieve net zero community emissions by 2050. As Big Sky continues to grow, we must increase our energy efficiency and environmental resilience to secure a sustainable future for our community.
the Big Sky Sustainability Network Organization’s (SNO) mission is to preserve and protect the Big Sky Community by advancing sustainability and environmental initiatives through our 2023 Big Sky Community Climate Action Plan (CAP). Want to learn more?
electrification is at the heart of sustainable living. Upgrading your home to efficient electric systems not only reduces carbon emissions but also enhances energy resilience and lowers utility bills.
discover how our community is moving towards a greener future and how you can participate in making Big Sky a leader in energy innovation and environmental stewardship.
