You asked for a description of the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program. You also wanted to know how it compares to energy efficiency programs offered in Connecticut.

HOME PERFORMANCE WITH ENERGY STAR PROGRAM

The program, developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy, offers a comprehensive, whole-house approach to improving energy efficiency and comfort at home. Contractors participating in locally-sponsored programs can help residents cost-effectively improve their home's energy efficiency. (There are local programs in 19 states, including Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island, but not Connecticut.) The contractors evaluate the home and recommend comprehensive improvements to yield the best results. Common recommendations address:

1. sealing and insulating ductwork,

2. replacing inefficient heating and cooling equipment, and

3. upgrading lighting and appliances.

The contractors assess how improvements to all of the building systems can work together to provide fewer drafts, consistent temperatures across rooms, better ventilation and humidity control, and lower utility bills. They can also help homeowners take advantage of federal tax credits and funding for energy efficiency improvements. There are no income limits for this program. Further information about this program is available at www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_improvement.hm_improvement_hpwes.

SIMILAR PROGRAMS IN CONNECTICUT

There are several programs in Connecticut that are more expansive than Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program, in that they provide actual energy improvements rather than just recommendations. Under the Weatherization Residential Assistance Partnership, which is available to low and moderate income Connecticut Light and Power (CL&P) customers, energy specialists:

1. find and seal drafts, cracks, and leaks in windows and doors;

2. add insulation to walls and attic, if needed;

3. determine if the customer qualifies for energy-efficient appliance and heating system upgrades;

4. provide and install energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulbs and table lamps;

5. install water conservation equipment, such as low-flow shower heads, if needed; and

6. provide additional efficiency measures, as needed.

The program is open to customers whose household income is up to 60% of the state median. For a three person household, the maximum income is $46,471. Further information about this program is available at www.cl-p.com/clmres/energy/wrap.asp. United Illuminating (UI) has a similar program called UI Helps. Further information about this program is available at www.uinet.com/uinet/connect/UINet/Top+Navigator/Your+Home/UI+Products+&+Services/Assistance+Programs/.

Both CL&P and UI also offer the Home Energy Solutions Program. This program provides a wide range of energy efficiency measures to address inefficient lighting, water heating, inefficient heating equipment, refrigeration, and insufficient insulation. The program is free for all CL&P and UI customers who heat with electricity or natural gas; for customers who heat with oil a co-pay is required.

The program offers:

1. a total home energy assessment,

2. duct sealing and other weatherization measures,

3. incentives for insulation upgrades,

4. installation of energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs,

5. rebates for replacing certain inefficient appliances, and

6. hot water saving measures

Further information about this program is available at www.uinet.com/uinet/connect/UINet/Top+Navigator/Your+Home/UI+Products+%26+Services/Home+Energy+Solutions/.

KM:ts