Homeowner & Renter Home Energy Upgrades
Xcel Energy
About the Program
All major utilities in Minnesota are required by law to direct a portion of their profits to fund energy efficiency programs that help the State meet its sustainability goals. The Home Energy Savings Program is an initiative of Xcel Energy, administered by the Energy CENTS Coalition, that offers energy efficiency improvements to qualifying customers, as one component of Xcel's larger sustainability programming.
Free Home Improvements in the Twin Cities East Metro
We can potentially help homeowners and renters in 1-4 unit buildings. This program is free of charge to qualified households. We recommend calling our office at 651-774-9010 or Program Specialist Kristen at 651-774-9010 ext 104 with questions.
Free Upgrades you May Qualify For
- Replace the boiler
- Install Ductless Air Source Heat Pumps for electric heated homes
- Replace an old refrigerator or freezer with new energy-efficient model
- Insulate the house to keep cold drafts out and keep heat in
- Replace electric or gas water heaters with a new energy-efficient model
- Replace an old window or wall air conditioner with a new energy-efficient model
- Offer LED bulbs to replace incandescent/CFL bulbs
- Show you other ways to save on home energy costs
What do I get?
Eligible customers are started out with a Home Energy Savings Program visit. If the energy auditor performing the visit discovers that insulation is needed during a HESP visit, the visit will then be turned into an Energy Audit. Energy audits typically take about 2 hours and will encompass a full energy assessment of your home. We target homes that are most in need of energy improvements and prioritize those improvements that will most significantly lower a home's energy bills.
A HESP visit can include:
- A check of the attic and wall insulation (access to your attic will be needed)
- A check of the ages and condition of the boiler/furnace/water heater
- A check of the age, size and condition of the refrigerator, freezer, dehumidifier and window AC unit
- Replace incandescent or CFL lightbulbs with LED bulbs
Possible Upgrades
96% Efficient ECM Furnace
Attic Air Sealing
Blown Cellulose Insulation
95% Efficient Wall Hanging Boiler
Energy Star rated refrigerator
Energy Star rated window air conditioner
Energy Star rated window air conditioner
Power Vent Water Heater
Power Vent Water Heater
Eligibility Requirements
Income limits
| Household Size | Annual Income |
|---|---|
|
1
|
$72,950
|
|
2
|
$83,400
|
|
3
|
$93,800
|
|
4
|
$104,200
|
|
5
|
$112,550
|
|
6
|
$120,900
|
|
7
|
$129,250
|
|
8
|
$137,500
|
|
9
|
$145,900
|
|
10
|
$154,250
|
In order to qualify, you must:
Meet the Income Guidelines
This program is intended for low-income Minnesotans.
Be an Xcel Customer
The Conservation Improvement Program is designed to target higher usage Xcel gas and electric customers.
Live in the East Metro
Our service area spans the East Metro, covering the entire counties of Ramsey and Washington, and includes some communities in Anoka, Chisago, and Dakota Counties.
Be an Owner or Renter in a 1 to 4 unit Building
We can potentially help homeowners and renters in 1-4 unit buildings.
FAQs
Possible upgrades include high efficient furnaces, boilers, power vent water heaters, air source heat pump water heaters, attic and wall insulation, attic air sealing, energy star rated refrigerators, chest freezers, window air conditioner units, and dehumidifiers.
Any recommended work is free to income qualified tenants or homeowners. For property owners insulation work is free and a 20% copay is required for HVAC or electric appliance replacements.
The program is run by Energy CENTS Coalition and funded by Xcel Energy
Recommended work is done on a case by case basis
Renters who pay their own Xcel Energy utility bill and own their own qualifying electric appliances can participate
All work is performed by Xcel certified contractors that are selected by Energy CENTS Coalition
Contact program specialist Kristen at 651-774-9010 ext 104
Apply now for home energy weatherization upgrades