Energy Assistance
Saving Money on Energy Costs
The Weatherization Assistance Program
Operation Fuel
Avoid Shut Offs
Energy Saving Tips
SAVING MONEY ON ENERGY COSTS
The Weatherization Assistance Program
The Weatherization Assistance Program was designed to help conserve energy and lower household heating bills. This program helps low-income persons minimize energy-related costs and fuel usage in their homes through retrofits and home improvement measures.
Priority is given to households with members that are particularly vulnerable:
- the elderly
- those with disabilities
- families with children
- high energy users
For multi-family homes, at least two-thirds of the tenants must be income-eligible.
http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=4405&q=509366&deepNav_GID=2121
Operation Fuel
Operation Fuel is a network of fuel banks that helps families and small businesses. They are committed to providing assistance to the residents of Connecticut who may have no other option to cover energy costs. Approval for the program is income-based but private financing allows them to extend help anyone experiencing an energy crisis. For more information, check out their website at www.Operationfuel.org
Avoid Shut Offs
Most gas and electric utility companies participate in programs to assist low-income residents who are falling behind on their heating bills. These Winter Protection Programs may help vulnerable residents avoid shutoffs. For more information, contact your utility company.
Connecticut Energy Assistance Program
Connecticut’s winter heating assistance program for low-income households pays for most heating sources, including natural gas, electricity, oil, propane, coal, wood and wood pellets. The exact level of benefits is based on the number of members in the household, the household’s income, and whether it is a “vulnerable” household. Households with a lower income will be eligible for a higher amount of assistance.
Are you a homeowner or renter who pays separately for heat?
If you live in a vulnerable household (one or more members are age 60 or older, have a disability, are under age 6) then you may qualify for up to $550 in winter heating assistance. If you live in a non-vulnerable household you may qualify for up to $505 in winter heating assistance.
Are your heating costs included in your monthly rent?
You may still be eligible for up to $80 - $100 in winter heating assistance depending on the household’s income and number of members.
To apply for these programs, schedule an appointment by calling your local community action agency or contacting 2-1-1 Infoline or the DSS Office of Community Services at 1-800-842-1132.
For more info on these and other state-administered programs check out the Housing/Shelter tab at www.ct.gov/dss
Energy Saving Tips
Turn Down Your Thermostat
You can easily save 5% or more a year by turning your thermostat down 10° to 15° for at least 8 hours a day.
Open & Close Your Blinds
Make sure your blinds and curtains are open during the day, allowing sunlight into the house. Close blinds at night in order to trap heat.
Winterize Your Windows & Doors
Use plastic film to cover your windows. Inspect door frames to make sure no drafts are coming into your home.
Check Your Furnace
Clean your air filters so that your heating system works more efficiently.
Use Your Ceiling Fan
Set your fan to blow air towards the ceiling. This will allow even heating in the room.
Contact Your Utility Company
Many offer tips by phone, email or website. Some will send a representative to your home.
Get An Energy Audit
Energize CT offers free home energy assessments (audits) for qualified applicants. To learn more, visit www.energizect.com/residents/solutions
