State Employees' Credit Union has made it easier for locals to make their homes a little greener.

The Raleigh, North Carolina-based credit union has recently launched a Green Second Mortgage designed specifically for energy efficient improvements such as replacement windows, heating/air conditioning systems, insulation or solar water systems and Energy Star appliances. As much as $50,000 may be financed for up to 10 years with at least 75% of the proceeds used for energy efficient improvements.

The move is only the latest in the credit union's green loan offerings and initiatives. In 2007, the SECU Foundation began a four-year commitment to support cleaner, renewable energy alternatives for North Carolina through the funding of one kilowatt hour of renewable energy production in the State for each member-a commitment to renewable energy in North Carolina of over 5.2 million kilowatt hours.