While Connecticut has had a few glimpses of summer-like weather over the last few months, the warm temperatures will soon be here to stay and Eversource is reminding customers of things they can do to help lower their energy use and bill. Although the cost of electricity purchased on behalf of customers - the Standard Service supply rate - is expected to go down July 1st, most of a customer's bill is based on usage so bills will still likely increase in the summer months when - on average - customers in Connecticut use about 35% more electricity. Energy efficiency measures can help customers save and the energy company is encouraging customers to explore the many solutions and incentive programs available.
"During the summer months, customers typically see a considerable increase in their electric usage as their fans and air conditioners work overtime to keep homes and businesses cool, and we remember the many stretches of extreme heat we experienced over the last few summers and what it did to our energy bills," said Eversource Energy Efficiency Manager Ricardo Jordan. "We encourage customers to take advantage of all energy efficiency measures. Some of the tips we offer may seem simple, but all of these small changes together can really make a big difference and result in a drop in your electric usage, which will be reflected in your bill."
One of the most popular energy efficiency offers Eversource customers can take advantage of is the Home Energy SolutionsSM program - where an authorized contractor will give a customer's home a comprehensive checkup to determine where the house is losing energy and provide on-the-spot improvements such as air sealing and weatherizing, plus access to rebates for insulation and other additional upgrades. It's an easy and affordable way to stop losing heat in the winter and cool air in the summer - things that all together can help a customer save up to $100 on their annual energy bill. Electric customers - including both homeowners and renters - who have not participated in the past six years can sign up to have the initial assessment and service done at their home for a $40 copay, or no out-of-pocket cost for customers who meet income eligibility requirements.
Other things customers can do to manage energy usage this summer:
- Keep air conditioners as warm as comfort allows. For every degree higher on the thermostat, the air conditioner will use 1-3% less electricity.
- Maintain air flow. Keep air vents and heat pump vents clear of obstructions such as furniture, curtains, and rugs.
- Operate major appliances during the cooler parts of the day. Energy is conserved by using appliances that create heat, like clothes dryers and dishwashers, early in the morning or late in the evening. There is also less demand on the electric system during these times.
- Keep blinds closed to prevent unwanted direct sunlight from entering a home through windows. Using curtains, shades, and blinds can lower indoor temperatures by up to 20 degrees.
- Switch to ENERGY STAR® certified LED lights. The energy-efficient bulbs run cooler and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent lights.
- Set ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise and at a higher speed in the summer to circulate the air more effectively, creating a cooling, wind chill effect. Remember, fans cool people not rooms, so turn the fan off when leaving the room.
Customers who are struggling to pay their energy bill are encouraged to visit Eversource.com/billhelp to learn more about the payment plans and assistance programs available or to call Eversource at 800-286-2828 for help finding the right plan for them.
Eversource (NYSE: ES), celebrated as a national leader for its commitment to sustainability and corporate citizenship, is named among America's Most Responsible Companies by Newsweek for 2026 and recognized as the #1 utility on USA Today's list of America's Climate Leaders for 2025. Eversource transmits and delivers electricity to 1.3 million customers in 157 cities and towns, provides natural gas to 256,000 customers in 85 communities, and supplies water to approximately 226,000 customers in 60 communities across Connecticut. Eversource harnesses the commitment of more than 10,500 employees across three states to build a single, united company around the mission of safely delivering reliable energy and water with superior customer service. The #1 Energy Efficiency Provider in the Nation, the company is empowering a clean energy future in the Northeast, with nationally recognized energy efficiency solutions and successful programs to integrate new clean energy resources like a first-in-the-nation networked geothermal pilot project, solar, offshore wind, electric vehicles and battery storage, into the electric system. For more information, please visit eversource.com, and follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. For more information on our water services, visit aquarionwater.com.
