Free energy-saving programs from your utility
Your own utility company often offers free upgrades and rebates that permanently lower your bill — most people just never ask.
Key takeaways
- Utilities often give away audits, LEDs, thermostats, and rebates.
- Weatherization is frequently free for income-qualified households.
- One call or website search can uncover programs that lower your bill for years.
Utilities are frequently required to help customers use less energy, so many run programs that hand out free equipment, assessments, and rebates. These can permanently lower your bill, and they're often underused simply because people don't know to ask.
Common free or low-cost utility programs:
- Free home energy audits/assessments that identify your specific savings
- Free LED bulbs, smart thermostats, or weatherstripping kits
- Rebates for energy-efficient appliances or HVAC upgrades
- Weatherization help (sealing and insulation), often free for income-qualified households
- Discounts or credits for shifting usage to off-peak hours
- Bill-assistance and crisis programs like LIHEAP for those who qualify
How to find them:
- Visit your utility's website and search 'energy savings,' 'efficiency,' or 'rebates'
- Call your utility and ask directly what free programs and rebates you qualify for
- Call 211 for local energy-assistance and weatherization resources
A single call can turn into free bulbs, a free thermostat, a home assessment, or a rebate — each one chipping away at your monthly bill for years to come.
What this is
Why it matters
What you can do next
Related FAQs
Common questions about this topic, answered simply.
Why would my utility help me use less energy?
Many utilities are required by regulators to run energy-efficiency programs, and reducing overall demand benefits the grid. That's why they offer free audits, equipment, and rebates — using them is a legitimate, encouraged way to save.
What's a home energy assessment?
It's a visit (often free) where a technician checks your home for energy waste — drafts, insulation, appliances — and recommends fixes. Many programs install free items like LEDs, smart power strips, or weatherstripping during the visit.
How do I find my utility's programs?
Search your utility's website for 'rebates,' 'efficiency,' or 'energy savings,' or call them and ask what free programs and rebates you qualify for. Call 211 for local weatherization and assistance resources too.
Keep reading
How to read your utility bill and spot overcharges
Utility bills are confusing on purpose — learning to read yours helps you catch errors, understand charges, and find ways to pay less.
Read Handling your billsHow to lower your heating and cooling costs
Heating and cooling are usually the biggest part of a utility bill — these low-cost steps keep you comfortable while paying less.
Read Handling your billsBudget billing vs actual billing: which saves you money
Budget billing smooths your utility payments into an even monthly amount — helpful for planning, but here's when it actually saves money and when it doesn't.
Read Handling your billsHow to cut your electric bill
Small changes around the house can noticeably lower your electric bill — here are the ones that actually move the needle.
ReadTest what you learned & earn points
Take a quick 3-question quiz on this article to earn MoneyFAQ points, build your streak, and unlock badges. Free account required.
Want answers personalized to your situation?
Tell us your #1 money goal and we'll tailor MoneyFAQ to you — free, takes 10 seconds.
When you're ready, here are some options
These are ads from partners — always optional. Looking is free and never affects your credit score. Reading the guide above is completely free either way.