by M.D. Dupuy

Eco-friendly folks looking to get spooked this Halloween season, head down to the Healing Center tomorrow and see “The World’s Most Energy Inefficient House,” a haunting journey into the world of monstrous carbon footprints, insidious temperature increases, and terrifying energy bills. The exhibition is part of tomorrow’s larger Anba Dlo (pronounced “Ahnbah Dlo”) Festival, a celebration of water and a fundraiser for The New Orleans Community Outreach.

The Halloween-inspired exhibition is through Build Now, a nonprofit residential construction company that helps low and middle-income people become green homeowners. Build Now Director of Operations Andrew Holbein described why the poorly insulated home was so chilling.

“It’s really spooky because it’s poorly insulated,” Holbein explained, pointing to the holes in the roof of the model home. “We’re trying to cut down on people’s energy costs.” 

Holbein recommends that potential home builders visit the NOLA Wise website for information on new construction, as well as tips for preexisting homeowners looking to cut back on costs. 

“There’s options like solar panels,” Holbein said. “We [Build Now] can have energy experts come and look at your house and tell you what changes you can make to raise its energy efficiency, they’ll also help you put together financing if you want solar panels. They can give you loans and help you pay them off,” said Holbein. 

“Anba Dlo” translates from Haitian Kreyol to “Beneath the Waters,” and will include 11 bands on three stages with acts from Papa Mali, 101 Runners, Sean Johnson, John Mooney, Big Chief Monk Boudeaux, and special guest George Porter Jr. The festival will also include a DJ dance area and food and drink vendors.

From noon until 4pm, panelists and lecturers will give attendees information about water conservation. At 5:30, the fun kicks off with a Halloween Costume Parade led by the Radical Faeries and 3 women’s marching clubs. 

Once you’re finished marching, head back to the Healing Center for the wild night of 13 bands, five music areas, interactive experiences, and more. Find more information at The Healing Center's website.