How can I reduce my energy bills?

The easiest way to reduce your energy (natural gas, electric, propane, or heating oil) bills is to reduce your consumption.

Usage reduction can be accomplished by raising or lowering your thermostat during the winter heating or summer cooling months, respectively.

Another way is to improve the energy efficiency of your home by installing, adding or improving the insulation in your home, replacing older appliances and light bulbs with newer, more energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs, and repairing your furnace or roof.

Can I get help with weatherizing my home?

Low-income energy consumers usually cannot afford to pay for home weatherization and energy efficiency measures on their own.

However, there are government and utility-sponsored programs providing free home weatherization and other energy efficiency services to low-income households.

These programs include the federally funded Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP), the Ohio Department of Development’s Energy Efficiency Program (EEP) targeting high-usage customers, and smaller programs sponsored by individual utilities such as First Energy and Vectren.

How can I apply for help?

Low-income utility customers can apply for these programs through their local Community Action Agencies or other local weatherization providers.

See also the Forms & Education tab in this section for more information.