Who's Behind This Site
I'm Rick Powell, a residential energy performance contractor trained in California through the Million Solar Roofs Program — a statewide initiative launched by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to expand residential solar and building performance work across California. That program is where I got my start: earning my contractor's license, becoming a BPI Certified Building Analyst, and eventually moving into training and instruction.
I worked as an instructor and rater for CalCerts, the California energy rating organization, and as an instructor for the CBPCA (California Building Performance Contractors Association), which ran the building science training programs for residential energy contractors throughout the state. That experience — teaching contractors how to diagnose and improve home performance — shaped how I think about these tools. I'm now based in Michigan.
I hold a BPI Certification as a Building Analyst, which means I'm trained to evaluate a home as a complete system — not just one component at a time. I'm also an NCI Credentialed HVAC Technician, a CSLB Licensed Contractor, a CalCerts Trainer, and a CA State Energy Rater. These aren't honorary titles — they represent real field hours, testing, and accountability.
After a decade of this work, I've seen the same mistakes made over and over: homeowners replacing HVAC systems before fixing air sealing, spending money on windows that barely move the needle, or going solar on a house that leaks like a sieve. EnergyWiseTools.com is my attempt to give homeowners the honest, independent information they need to make better decisions — before they call anyone.
Credentials & Background
Why I Built These Tools
— Rick Powell
When homeowners search for energy savings information, they're usually met with two things: vague government pamphlets or slick sales pitches from contractors and manufacturers. Neither one gives a straight answer.
The tools on this site are built on real building science — BPI methodology, DOE data, and the kind of diagnostic thinking that goes into a proper home energy audit. They're not trying to sell you insulation, HVAC equipment, windows, or solar panels. They're trying to help you understand what your home actually needs — and in what order.
Everything runs in your browser. Nothing is saved or transmitted. No signup. No upsell. Just honest answers in plain English.
What You'll Find Here
EnergyWiseTools.com offers free calculators for the most common residential energy decisions: insulation savings, HVAC efficiency, air sealing, window upgrades, utility bill analysis, and solar readiness. There's also a blog with in-depth articles written from real field experience — not manufacturer talking points.
If you have questions or feedback, feel free to reach out at rickpowell61@gmail.com.