Winter is coming and COVID-19 is still a part of our daily lives. Soon, cold temperatures will arrive and with many school districts transitioning to virtual learning, families will be spending more time indoors, using an increasing amount of energy.
Through the services and support of East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation (EANDC) residents of Stark and Summit Counties can still have energy-efficient homes.
Anna Deger, EANDC Vice President of Residential Services is an expert on money-saving tips to help keep your energy bills low. With 20 years of experience working in energy services, Deger and the EANDC team continue to work vigorously to assist 1500+ clients each year.
To keep your household running efficiently year-round, Deger suggests following these steps:
Plug home electronics, such as TVs and gaming systems, into power strips; turn the power strips off when equipment is not in use.
Turn off electronics when you are not in the room.
Air-dry dishes or clothes.
Install a programmable thermostat.
Close off unused space like closets and guest rooms so they are not heated or cooled unnecessarily.
Keep the clothes dryer lint screen clean.
Use cold water when you can for laundry.
Replace lighting with LED bulbs.
Switch to ENERGY STAR appliances, fans, and electronics when possible. (May be available free through our Energy Audit program.
EANDC’s Energy Efficiency Programs help eligible Ohioans reduce their electricity usage in their home. EANDC performs in-home audits and installs appropriate electric energy efficiency measures to reduce electric usage. Customers also receive information on how they can reduce their electric use and improve their home’s efficiency.
Ohioans are eligible for EPP if they are on or eligible for the Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP), having a total household income that is at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty levels. Click here for program details or call our Energy Services department at (330) 773-2095.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for this program, your household must meet the following annual income requirements:
1 Person $19, 140
2 People $25, 860
3 People $32, 580
4 People $39, 300
5 People $46, 020
6 People $52, 740
7 People $59, 460
8 People $66, 180
For households with 8 or more people, add $6, 720 for every additional person (9 = $72, 900; 10 = $79, 620...). These numbers are based on Federal Income Guidelines for 150% of the Poverty Level.
If you are experiencing financial stress or difficulty paying your rent/mortgage due to COVID-19, please contact EANDC directly for rental assistance. Community Legal Aid is also available for assistance with securing stimulus check funds, eviction assistance, unemployment resources and criminal record expungement. Helpline support can be accessed by phone at 1-800-998-9454 or online at communitylegalaid.org.