Next Step Living helps weatherize 150 homes

Boston-based energy audit firm Next Step Living will help weatherize at least 150 homes under the city's "Renew Boston Residential Energy Efficiency" initiative, a pilot program that started this week.

Mayor Thomas M. Menino is expected to announce details of the $200,000 program tomorrow, alongside Next Step Living head Geoff Chapin, at one of the homes that is being weatherized. The company analyzes a home's energy consumption so that residents can then cut back and save money.

The $200,000 is federal "empowerment zone" funding meant to help stimulate local economic development, said James W. Hunt III, Boston's chief of environmental and energy services.

"The idea here is that this funding will not only support a business that we've attracted to come to Boston, but it will help reduce energy consumption in residences throughout our city," Hunt said. The program also is expected to create "green" jobs. (By Erin Ailworth, Globe staff)