Step 1: Understand your current energy use.  

A utility bill analysis along with a home performance audit, and energy modeling
establishes a baseline and provide options for improving energy efficiency.

Step 2: Make a commitment. 

Articulate what amount of time and money you will dedicate to greening your home.  Even without
much money spent, adapting how you live in your home can significantly cut energy use. 
Regarding money commitments, laying out a budget will help prioritize home improvements.  

Step 3:  Set energy use and carbon reduction goals. 

When undertaking a major remodeling project or or whole-house energy improvement project is the appropriate time to quantify your goals.  These goals can be to reduce carbon emissions and energy budget by 30%, 50%, or 100%. 

If no major project is in the works, you can look to decrease your energy use and carbon emissions by a set percent per year.  At a 2% per year reduction, one can reach a 60% reduction by 2050! 

Step 4: Develop a plan. 

Create a detailed plan to ensure a systematic process to your home improvements.  This plan includes a written description prioritizing projects, and may include architectural plans to show anticipated remodeling or additions.

Step 5: Implement the plan and verify results. 

Reaching your goals does depend on the abilities, understanding, and commitment
of the people who implement the projects.