Durham, N.C. — Sue Concannon said making her home energy efficient is a top priority.

“We’ve lived here since 1993 and we’ve spent a lot of time methodically trying to make improvements on the home to conserve energy, but we’ve never had a professional come out,” Concannon said.

Professionals like Tom Miller, an energy auditor for Durham County, typically charge $500 to inspect homes, looking for house holes and energy leaks.

But by attending a free class offered at county Cooperative Extension offices, customers can get the same audit for $100.

“It’s a popular program because people are interested in conserving energy and reducing their energy bills,” said Deborah McGiffin, of the Durham County Cooperative Extension office.

The course is a part of the state Cooperative Extension’s E-Conservation program. Attendance at one workshop makes a person eligible for the audit discount.

To be eligible for the program, there are several qualifications. Homes must not be larger than 2,000 square feet and can only have one heating and air conditioning system. The home must also be more than five years old.

Concannon attended a workshop and said she feels investing time and money now will save her in the future.