Business
09:40 AM EDT on Monday, October 10, 2005
There are two energy audit programs available for Rhode Islanders,
depending on household income.
Multimedia: Tim Barmann narrates a home
energy audit and offers tips on energy conservation with photos by
Kris Craig
The Weatherization Assistance Program, administered by the State Energy
Office and local community action agencies, is for low-income
households. Those who qualify for federal heating assistance are
eligible.
The other program is EnergyWise, administered by Narragansett Electric.
It's available to residential customers, condominium associations and
apartment building owners.
Both programs provide similar services, except that the Weatherization
program will also pay for replacing an inefficient refrigerator and
making other improvements that will cut down on energy usage in a house.
The EnergyWise program offers 2-percent interest loans to pay for
certain improvements, such as buying new energy-efficient windows, or
the installation of insulation. It also provides a rebate of up to $200
to replace an older refrigerator.
With both programs, the findings of an energy auditor will be presented
in a report that details electricity usage and ways it can be cut back.
The EnergyWise program is funded through a surcharge on the bills of all
of Narragansett Electric customers.
That surcharge partially funds the Weatherization Assistance Program as
well. In addition, that program gets money from the U.S. Department of
Energy and from the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program,
or LIHEAP.
To make an appointment for an audit through the EnergyWise program, call
(888) 633-7947. Massachusetts residents can contact the Mass-Save
program for an energy audit at (800) 632-8300.
To sign up for an energy audit through Rhode Island's Weatherization
Assistance Program, call the State Energy Office at (401) 222-3370.
Residents can also contact their community action agency.
|
More business stories
Most viewed yesterday
Donaldson -- Brady's health will determine how far these Patriots go
After two preseason games, Patriots are far from being a super team
Inmate had sex with supervisor during work release, officials say
West Warwick, state of Rhode Island propose settlements in Station fire
Most active surveys
Are you considering switching to a cheaper alternative to heat your home?
Should the drinking age be lowered?
React to the latest Station fire settlement offer
Most e-mailed in the last 24 hours
