Get Cool with Energy Efficiency before it Gets Hot

NEW BRITAIN, Conn., May 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- One of the biggest barriers facing many Connecticut residents in improving the energy efficiency of their homes is the question of where to begin.  However, something we do know is that with the warm summer months approaching, cooling season is just around the corner, which means higher energy usage and increased bills. 

"We would like all Connecticut residents to know that there is a way to save money during this time," said Rich Steeves, First Vice Chairperson, Energy Efficiency Board. "Many people don't know where to begin, but the first step to consider is getting an expert into your home to conduct a comprehensive energy assessment.  The best time to do this is when the temperatures are still comfortable, before it gets too hot.  Think about how miserable it would be to insulate your attic in 90 degree weather."

By receiving an energy assessment, residents could save themselves hours of hard work and better understand how to become more energy efficient and where their money is being spent when it comes to energy usage.

"The Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund's Home Energy Solutions program helps residents by sending trained specialists to their homes to perform the assessment, make on-the-spot improvements and provide rebates on appliances, HVAC systems and insulation, for starters.  Our goal is to make sure your home is as energy efficient as possible, and in the end, save you money," said Steeves.

Through the Home Energy Solutions (HES) program, a technician will:

• Locate and seal drafts, cracks and leaks throughout your home
• Evaluate wall and attic insulation and analyze appliances
• Provide and install energy-saving lighting solutions
• Provide and install hot water-saving, low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators
• Provide rebate information for HVAC upgrades as well as certain appliance replacements with ENERGY STAR® certified products.
• Discuss and leave you with information about money-saving tips to stay energy efficient throughout the year

"Education of these programs is crucial, and knowing that you can use our experts to take weatherizing your home to the next level is equally as important," said Steeves. "Residents can opt for additional measures beyond the core services of the HES program, such as quality insulation and the replacement or upgrade of heating and cooling systems, and the upfront cost can be drastically reduced through rebates being offered by the Energy Efficiency Fund as well."

All HES customers can find rebates and incentives for numerous appliances on the Fund's website, but some of these rebates are available for a limited time only.  For instance, zero percent financing for home insulation is available only until June 30, 2012 for all electric and gas heating customers. 

The basic HES program incurs a modest $75 fee to be collected at the time of service and is available to all Connecticut Light and Power and United Illuminating Company customers. 

For more information on HES programs, please call 1-877-WISE USE, visit www.CTEnergyInfo.com or join in on the energy efficient conversation at www.facebook.com/energyefficiencyct.

About the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund
The Energy Efficiency Fund promotes efficient energy use, helps residents and businesses save on their electric and natural gas bills, advances economic development, reduces electric demand, and helps reduce air pollution.  Energy Efficiency Fund programs serve residential customers, including limited-and fixed-income customers, as well as business and municipal customers.  Connecticut's energy efficiency programs are funded by a charge on customers' utility bills and administered by the state's electric and gas utilities including: Connecticut Light and Power, United Illuminating, Yankee Gas, Connecticut Natural Gas, and Southern Connecticut Gas.  Additional information on Connecticut's energy efficiency programs can be found at www.ctenergyinfo.com or by calling 1.877.WISE.USE.

SOURCE Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund