Energy Burden is the amount of money spent on a home's energy needs, like electric and gas bills. When energy burden is too high, people may choose between energy, food or medicine.
ECLIPSE has three goals:
- Reduce energy burden
- Increase access to renewable energy
- Promote energy efficiency
The best way to lower energy burden is to have an energy-efficient, well-insulated home, like NYSERDA’S energy efficient home and apartment.
Renters might find it hard to make changes, and homeowners might think it costs too much. ECLIPSE can help you save money on energy. The WNY Clean Energy Hub can help you plan and make your home more energy-efficient. Together we can lower energy burden!
How can YOU reduce energy burden?
1. ENROLL in the ECLIPSE Community Solar Program
If you rent or own a home and have an electric bill, you can save money without needing rooftop solar panels. You’ll get discounts on your monthly electric bill. To join, click on ECLIPSE Community Solar Program, or find a local event by clicking Events.
2. CONTACT the WNY Clean Energy Hub
The WNY Clean Energy Hub helps people get free or low-cost energy upgrades for renters and homeowners. Energy Advisors can help you apply for grants, rebates, and tax credits to make your home more energy-efficient.
3. PLAN your project using MyEnergy.NY.gov
Use MyEnergy, New York State’s tool to plan home energy upgrades. It helps you save money, make your home better, and learn about the benefits of energy upgrades.
Top Energy Projects for
Why does energy efficiency matter?
Cost Savings
You can save money at home by using less energy. Energy-efficient homes are cheaper to heat and cool, and they are more comfortable.
Resilience and Reliability
Energy-efficient homes use less electricity, which can help prevent blackouts and brownouts. They also make it easier to use renewable energy, like solar or wind, which is better for the environment.
Environmental Benefit
Using less energy helps fight climate change. Many power plants burn fossil fuels that pollute the air and release green house gases that harm the planet.
Community Benefit
Energy efficiency helps communities. It is especially important for neighborhoods that deal with more pollution and higher energy costs. Using less energy makes the air, water, and land cleaner, which helps people stay healthy—especially those who are more at risk.
