NEW BRITAIN, Conn. — The Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund has announced that its Home Energy Solutions program is helping residents reduce their energy usage for the summer cooling season by providing energy assessments; simple, immediate home improvements; plus rebates on HVAC, insulation, and more.

“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.”

By receiving an energy assessment, residents can 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 the 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 supply information on 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 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 has a fee of $75 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, call 877-WISE USE or visit www.CTEnergyInfo.com.

Publication date: 6/4/2012