Self-Reliance

Self-Reliance As an independent, objective authority, Self-Reliance helps members navigate energy choices. Hi! Let’s work together to save energy and money!

We’re Self-Reliance, a non-profit organization based in Cataumet, MA. We run a heat & power cooperative where our member oil price is based on the daily wholesale price plus a fixed profit margin – it’s always lower than what the full-service dealers we work with are selling to the general public for. Last heating season we calculated that our members saved an average of $0.37 per gallon off the s

tate average retail price. Since 2011, we also have member pricing on propane delivery on Cape Cod. Our Education Division offers STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art & math) programs for the community including school-age children, many with a strong focus on energy conservation, energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies. Our Training Division offers tradespeople (contractors, electricians, etc) relevant and timely training opportunities focused on energy including continuing education credits necessary for license renewal. Learn more about us by looking around our website, or call us for more information.

New ADU Resources Now Available on the Self-Reliance WebsiteAs housing costs continue to rise across Cape Cod and southe...
12/19/2025

New ADU Resources Now Available on the Self-Reliance Website

As housing costs continue to rise across Cape Cod and southeastern Massachusetts, many homeowners are exploring Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as a way to create flexible, affordable housing options for family members, caregivers, or renters.

To help members and community residents better understand what’s involved, Self-Reliance has launched a new ADU Resources page on our website.

What you’ll find on the new ADU Resources page
The new page brings together practical, plain-language information to help you navigate the early stages of planning an ADU, including:
-An overview of what ADUs are and how they are commonly used
-Design and construction topics, such as site constraints, utilities, wastewater and safety considerations
-Financing and incentive options, including state programs that may help make an ADU more affordable
-Energy and efficiency considerations, so new units are comfortable, resilient, and cost-effective to operate

Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea or already deep into planning, these resources are designed to help you ask better questions and make informed decisions.

Why we created these resources

We hear from members who are considering ADUs for:
-Aging parents or adult children
-Family members with disabilities
-Long-term housing stability
-Additional income to help offset rising costs

At the same time, ADUs can be complex. Regulations, financing, construction costs, and energy choices all matter—and misinformation can be costly. This new resource hub is part of our ongoing commitment to clear, unbiased guidance that puts people first.

This is just the beginning
The ADU Resources page will continue to grow as policies change and new programs become available. We encourage you to check back periodically and share the page with neighbors, family members, and local decision-makers who may also be navigating these questions.

Visit the new ADU Resources page here: https://lnkd.in/enYHAQrx

If you have suggestions for additional topics or questions you’d like us to address, please let us know—we’d love to hear from you.

Address

1396 RT-28A
Cataumet, MA
02534

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4pm
Tuesday 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm

Telephone

(508) 563-6633

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