Net-Zero Hero: Pat & Dale Bulla
We are helping to make Austin Net-Zero by generating and conserving energy at home.
Meet Pat and Dale Bulla, retired educators and active environmentalists, who are maximizing energy efficiency in their home to help Austin achieve Net-Zero by 2050. From installing solar panels and rain barrels to using smaller, more efficient appliances, they are always finding ways to live as green as possible. We spoke with Pat and Dale on how they’re doing it, what their toughest challenges have been, and what advice they have for others.
What inspired you to take action?
We know people whose utility bill is almost as much as their mortgage, and we didn't want to be in that situation. Since we are retired teachers, we need to carefully monitor our expenses! We also know that our planet is warming, and we want to do our part to pass on a healthy planet for the next generation.
How did you do it?
Pat and Dale's home features many sustainable features, including efficient windows, solar panels, rain barrels, and a smart thermostat.
It’s been a combination of good planning around our home, including passive solar design with no west windows, and a large roof overhang for sun protection in summer. With our architect's help, we utilized a great deal of natural light from energy-efficient casement windows, which are well-placed to allow for breeze flow-through and a "chimney" effect. The windows on our house have special glass that blocks out heat. We also installed seven ceiling fans, one in every major room.
We subscribed to Austin Energy's GreenChoice program and added solar panels on our house and garage. We’ve been strategic about where we plant shade trees, and we replaced our composition shingle roof with a metal roof when hail damage required roof replacement. The metal roof reflects sunlight and lowers our cooling costs, along with a smart programmable thermostat.
We also have an extensive composting system and a drought-tolerant, all-native yard that requires no mowing or chemical use. We don't use a sprinkler system, but have 800 gallons of rainwater collection after only a half-inch of rain. We use that water to give trees an extra drink during drought times.
Have there been any unexpected benefits?
Our house produces more electricity than we use, even during scorching Texas summers and while charging our zero-emission all-electric plug-in car at home. It is great to drive right past gas stations in our electric car!
What's been the toughest part?
There are upfront costs associated with many of these efforts, but there are also rebates and tax incentives to help make them more affordable. In the long term, all of this saves money and increases the value of our home. By thinking long-term instead of short-term, many people can save money while protecting the planet.
What advice do you have for others?
When it comes to the environment, there are many things we cannot control, but we can always control our personal decisions and actions. Choose to take good care of our earth! There is no need to sacrifice, and there is no planet B. So join in as we protect the environment, leave a livable planet for our children, and save money in the process.
To learn more about Austin's net-zero goal and the actions you can take to support a greener community, view the Austin Climate Equity Plan.
Share your Net-Zero contributions with us on X (formerly Twitter) or Facebook, and use #NetZeroHero. If you know a Net-Zero Hero (or heroes!) who should be recognized for their efforts, send your nomination to climate@austintexas.gov.