

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the availability of resources to help New Yorkers save on their home energy bills. A second emergency benefit through the Home Energy Assistance Program is now available for eligible New Yorkers in danger of running out of heating fuel or having their utility service shut off. Additionally, the Department of State is sharing practical tips to help consumers reduce their utility bills and has released a new Guide to Home Heating with Oil and Propane, which provides tips to help consumers who use heating oil and propane fuel reduce their heating bills and save while shopping for fuel.
"We are at the peak of this winter season which can lead to higher heat and energy bills, and my administration will continue to take action to make utilities more affordable in New York," Governor Hochul said. "It is important for New Yorkers to take advantage of the State's cost assistance and residential programs to help reduce these energy costs. Following these tips can help save money and protect our vulnerable populations during the cold season."
Home Energy Assistance Program
HEAP, which is overseen by the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, is federally funded and can help eligible New Yorkers heat and cool their homes. Normally, eligible households can receive one regular HEAP benefit each winter and could also be eligible for a single emergency HEAP benefit if they face an energy crisis. Those that have already received a regular and emergency benefit this winter will be able to apply for an additional emergency benefit, if they are facing a utility shut off or are running out of heating fuel and cannot afford to replenish it.
The amount a household receives from HEAP depends on income, household size and how the home is heated. A family of four can earn up to $5,485 per month and still qualify for assistance. A needy household that heats with oil and qualifies for a regular HEAP benefit and two emergency benefits could receive nearly $3,000 in total assistance this winter. Applications for emergency HEAP benefits are accepted at local departments of social services in person or by telephone. A list of offices by county can be found here.
New York State also offers numerous cost assistance programs for qualifying applicants, as well as a variety of residential programs to help reduce home energy costs for all income groups:
Home Energy Efficiency Programs
NYSERDA offers a range of residential programs designed to help New York State residents identify areas where their homes are driving up energy costs and can provide assistance in completing energy efficiency improvements for a healthier, more comfortable home. More information is available here.
Home Energy Audits
New Yorkers can conduct an energy audit of their home or apartment to learn about recommended efficiency improvements to save money on your energy bill. An audit can provide information on low-cost improvements as well as large-scale investments and available financial resources. Contact NYSERDA for assistance here.
Weatherization Assistance Program
The NYS Weatherization Assistance Program, which is administered by NYS Homes and Community Renewal, is the largest residential energy conservation program in the country. The program assists income-eligible homeowners and renters in New York by reducing heating and cooling costs through energy-conservation measures, while also addressing health and safety issues in their homes. More information is available here.
In addition to the Home Heating with Oil and Propane Guide, the Department of State's Division of Consumer Protection is offering the following tips to help consumers reduce energy costs and heating bills:
HEATING/COOLING:
HOUSEHOLD:
ELECTRONICS:
Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez, who oversees the Division of Consumer Protection said, "Colder weather often means higher heating and energy costs, and these increased expenses can be detrimental to New Yorkers who are already struggling to make ends meet. These practical tips, along with the many resources available here in New York, can help consumers save money while heating their homes in the cold winter months and reduce energy costs throughout the entire year."
Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Daniel W. Tietz said, "Cold temperatures and high energy prices have combined to make this a difficult winter for some of our most vulnerable residents as they struggle with the cost of heating their homes. Without this additional assistance, many New Yorkers would find themselves with nowhere else to turn in an emergency situation."
NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, "As we enter the peak of the winter season, I encourage all New Yorkers to reduce costs through simple energy efficiency and weatherization steps that create healthier, more comfortable places to live. Homeowners in New York State are eligible for a free energy assessment, to determine short-term steps or longer-term solutions, all of which lower greenhouse gas emissions and energy usage."
Chair of the State Public Service Commission Rory M. Christian said, "As a direct result of the new policies and regulations that have been put into place, energy customers have enormous opportunities to take control over their overall energy costs, to spur clean energy innovation and investment, to improve customer choice and value, and to protect the environment. Interested customers can contact their local utility as a first step to see what is available."
Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, "With us in the midst of the year's coldest months and parts of the State being impacted by winter weather events, this simple advice on how to reduce home heating costs could not be more timely. I encourage everyone to look into implementing these energy efficiency and weatherization measures that will reduce energy consumption and lower costs at their own homes."
About the New York State Division of Consumer Protection
The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides resources and education materials to consumers, as well as voluntary mediation services between consumers and businesses. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at www.dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection.
For other consumer protection tips and consumer alerts, consumers can visit the DCP website or follow DCP on social media via Twitter at @NYSConsumer or Facebook at www.facebook.com/nysconsumer. Sign up to receive consumer alerts directly to your email or phone here.