The Energy Information Administration released their annual energy
outlook on Tuesday, October 6, with some good news for energy users
across the country.
According to U.S. Government statistics, average household expenditures for space-heating fuels are projected to be $960 this winter (October 1 to March 31), which means a decrease of $84, or 8 percent, from last winter.
This forecast principally reflects lower fuel prices, although an expected slightly milder winter will also contribute to lower fuel use in many areas. The largest expenditure decreases are in households using natural gas and propane, projected at 12 and 14 percent, respectively, while electricity and heating oil expenditures are projected to decline by 2 percent.
According to NYSERDA's Heat Smart, NY program website, home heating accounts for an average of 60 percent of your total energy bill. Although energy users will benefit from lower prices and slightly milder temperatures, homeowners can maximize their energy-efficiency and minimize their heat expenses with just a few small improvements.
For those who qualify, NYSERDA will cover the cost of these improvements.
Homeowners, who fall under 60 percent of the New York State median income, qualify for the Weatherization Assistance Program through the Division of Housing and Community Renewal. According to the WAP website, the program assists eligible individuals and families by making energy-efficiency improvements such as air sealing, "wall and ceiling insulation, heating system improvements or replacement, efficiency improvements in lighting, hot water tank and pipe insulation, and refrigerator replacements with highly efficient Energy Star rated units." Through the WAP, the average homeowner can reduce their energy use and cost by more that 20 percent.
For more information on the program or to find out if you qualify, visit www.nyserda.org or contact the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, (518) 884-4144.
NYSERDA also offers residential programs for improving your home's energy performance and costs and for building a new energy efficient home.
Current homeowners may be eligible for incentives or low-interest financing that will make energy efficiency improvements more affordable. Through the ENERGY STAR Program, homeowners can sign up for a comprehensive home assessment to check for energy inefficiencies such as air leaks and identify safety and health risks in your home. To sign up for an assessment with a certified contractor in your area, visit www.getenergysmart.org.
This forecast principally reflects lower fuel prices, although an expected slightly milder winter will also contribute to lower fuel use in many areas. The largest expenditure decreases are in households using natural gas and propane, projected at 12 and 14 percent, respectively, while electricity and heating oil expenditures are projected to decline by 2 percent.
According to NYSERDA's Heat Smart, NY program website, home heating accounts for an average of 60 percent of your total energy bill. Although energy users will benefit from lower prices and slightly milder temperatures, homeowners can maximize their energy-efficiency and minimize their heat expenses with just a few small improvements.
For those who qualify, NYSERDA will cover the cost of these improvements.
Homeowners, who fall under 60 percent of the New York State median income, qualify for the Weatherization Assistance Program through the Division of Housing and Community Renewal. According to the WAP website, the program assists eligible individuals and families by making energy-efficiency improvements such as air sealing, "wall and ceiling insulation, heating system improvements or replacement, efficiency improvements in lighting, hot water tank and pipe insulation, and refrigerator replacements with highly efficient Energy Star rated units." Through the WAP, the average homeowner can reduce their energy use and cost by more that 20 percent.
For more information on the program or to find out if you qualify, visit www.nyserda.org or contact the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, (518) 884-4144.
NYSERDA also offers residential programs for improving your home's energy performance and costs and for building a new energy efficient home.
Current homeowners may be eligible for incentives or low-interest financing that will make energy efficiency improvements more affordable. Through the ENERGY STAR Program, homeowners can sign up for a comprehensive home assessment to check for energy inefficiencies such as air leaks and identify safety and health risks in your home. To sign up for an assessment with a certified contractor in your area, visit www.getenergysmart.org.
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