As Temperatures Drop, NYSEG and RG&E Share Energy Savings Tips and Programs to Help Lower Costs

Reducing energy use can help customers lower their bill this winter 

HEAP is expected to open on November 2; EAP and EEAP available to aid customers 

 

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — October 29, 2026 — New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) are encouraging customers to prepare for colder weather by taking steps to reduce energy use and improve home efficiency. The Companies are also reminding eligible customers that enrollment for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) opens Monday, November 2.  

 

“While it’s vital for our customers to be comfortable indoors once the colder weather arrives, we know that heating is one of the largest drivers of energy consumption,” said Christine Alexander, vice president of customer service for NYSEG and RG&E. “That’s why simple steps taken today can help customers use less energy once extreme temperatures arrive. We also encourage eligible customers to sign up for programs like HEAP, EAP, and EEAP to get credits that will help lower their bill.”  

 

There are many low-cost and no-cost tips that can help make a customer’s home more energy efficient. These tips include: 

  • Each degree you lower your thermostat can reduce fuel consumption by approximately 3%.  
  • Install programmable thermostats to turn down the temperature automatically. 
  • Heating and cooling systems should be inspected annually by a professional. Inefficient systems can increase fuel consumption.  
  • Check for leaks in duct work, inspect pipes that run through unheated areas, replace air filters that are dirty, and address leaky areas in doors and windows.  
  • Space heaters can add significantly to your energy bill. A typical 1,500-watt space heater used for eight hours a day can add around 360 kilowatt-hours to your monthly bill.  
  • Additional energy savings tips can be found at Energy Saving Tips - NYSEG or Energy Saving Tips - RGE.  

 

Smart meters can help customers track their energy use with features including Energy Manager and Usage Alerts. Energy Manager can help customers monitor their energy use down to the hour and Usage Alerts provide customers with a text or email notification about their energy consumption habits. Both of these digital tools can empower customers to make informed decisions about their energy use.  

 

Eligible customers should explore bill credits that may be available. These options include: 

Additional assistance options are available. Customers seeking help with their bill should contact 800.572.1111 (NYSEG) or 800.743.2110 (RG&E). More information is available at Help With Your Bill | NYSEG - NYSEG or Help With Your Bill | RG&E - RGE.