Energize Connecticut Offers Tips to Help Reduce Energy Bills as Rates Rise

NEW BRITAIN, Conn., Dec. 18, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- With higher electricity prices due to take effect in Connecticut January 2015, the Energize Connecticut initiative is offering several tips and reminding customers to take advantage of Connecticut's energy efficiency programs to lessen the impact of these rates on their utility bills. Further, the utilities offer budget billing and programs specifically designed for income-eligible customers.

"We want customers to know that there are many options to help them reduce their energy usage and keep their bills in check, including system upgrades and everyday best practices," said Pat McDonnell, senior director of conservation and load management, UIL Holdings Corporation.

McDonnell added that now is the best time to begin preparing for the January price increase by making efficiency improvements around the home that can lower energy use.  Simple steps like switching to high-efficiency light-emitting diodes (LED) lighting, turning down the thermostat, and sealing drafty doors and windows are just some of the ways homeowners can reduce their bills. "Many people may not realize that heating alone accounts for about 64% of a resident's energy cost," he said.

"We encourage homeowners to take advantage of the energy efficiency programs which are designed to help reduce their usage, tighten up their homes, and ensure every energy dollar is spent effectively," said Matthew Gibbs, director of energy efficiency implementation at Connecticut Light & Power (CL&P).

Customers can also benefit from an energy assessment to learn what efficiency measures are needed most in their homes by signing up for Home Energy Solutions. Customers can also take advantage of energy efficiency rebates and incentives, including those available for the purchase of energy-efficient heating systems, insulation, refrigerators and water heaters.

Many homeowners may not realize that nearly half of a home's heat loss is due to poorly insulated attics, ceilings and walls.  By participating in the program, up to 50 percent of your insulation project could be covered by Energize Connecticut rebates and the insulation project may be eligible for a no-interest on utility bill repayment plan.

With proper sealing and insulation, customers can reduce their heating and cooling costs significantly. Sealing leaks and adding insulation will not only help homeowners save money and improve the overall comfort of your home, it will also help to fix many common problems, such as:

• Reduced noise from outside
• Less pollen, dust and insects (or pests) entering your home
• Better humidity control
• Lower chance for ice dams on the roof/eves in snowy climates

Energize Connecticut also provides homeowners with low interest financing options, such as the Energize CT Heating Loan and the Smart-E Loan, for customers who are interested in replacing aging furnaces, electric heat pumps and boilers with ENERGY STAR® qualified products.

Another way customers can better manage their monthly billing is to consider switching to budget billing or a budget payment plan. The company's budget billing option can also help customers manage household expenses by providing equal monthly payments throughout the year.

For more information on energy-saving programs and services supported by Energize Connecticut, call 1-877-WISE-USE or visit: EnergizeCT.com.

About Energize Connecticut

Energize Connecticut helps you save money and use clean energy. It is an initiative of the Energy Efficiency Fund, the Clean Energy Finance & Investment Authority, the State, and your local electric and gas utilities, with funding from a charge on customer energy bills. Information on energy-saving programs can be found at EnergizeCT.com or by calling 1.877.WISE.USE.

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SOURCE Energize Connecticut

Related Links

http://www.energizect.com