RELEASE: Indianapolis Office of Sustainability Shares Energy Efficiency Tips and Resources

Indianapolis Office of Sustainability Shares Energy Efficiency Tips and Resources

Ways to reduce energy use and lower utility bills this winter
 

INDIANAPOLIS—The Indianapolis Office of Sustainability is sharing ways community members can reduce energy use, save money, and get assistance on utility bills during the cold winter months.  
Here are nine simple free or low-cost actions you can take to stay warm while maximizing energy efficiency: 

  • Use natural lighting whenever possible. Open curtains/blinds to let the sun warm your space. 

  • Close windows when the heat is on and keep curtains/blinds closed at night to retain heat. Consider upgrading to thermal curtains for even better insulation in the colder months. 

  • Turn your thermostat down before you leave or go to bed to reduce energy consumption. 

  • Check external doors, windows, attics, basements, electrical outlets, light fixtures, AC units, and gaps in insulation for air leaks and drafts. Caulking, weatherstripping, and installing door sweeps and window insulation film can help retain heat and lead to lower energy bills. 

    • A well-weatherized home also involves addressing insulation levels in the attic, walls, floor, and crawlspaces. Learn more about insulation recommendations at EnergyStar.gov.

  • If you use a fireplace, keep your damper closed when you aren't using it. If you never use your fireplace, plug and seal the chimney flue. 

  • Change your furnace filter according to operating instructions to help your furnace work more efficiently.

  • Set the temperature on your water heater thermostat a few degrees cooler.

  • Set your ceiling fan to rotate clockwise, which will move warm air down.

  • Switch your residential and holiday lights to LED, the most energy-efficient lighting option.

More tips available at EnergyStar.gov/saveathome and Indy.Gov/activity/energy-efficiency-tips.

There are also a number of programs to help residents make larger changes for energy efficiency:

  • Community Action of Greater Indianapolis (CAGI) performs weatherization services on the residences of eligible clients. Weatherization may involve such things as blowing insulation into attics and/or walls, sealing ductwork, or insulating crawl spaces. To learn more and see if you qualify, visit CAGI's website here.

  • AES Indiana customers who meet income requirements can receive free in-home energy assessments, installation of free energy-efficient products to help you start saving immediately, and recommendations for additional weatherization improvements that may be provided at no cost to you.

  • AES Indiana customers who do not qualify for in-home assessments may still be eligible for free virtual assessments to receive recommendations and energy savings tips.

  • AES Indiana offers a variety of rebates and discounts on home improvements, energy-efficient appliances, and smart thermostats. Learn more on their website.

  • The recently launched Indiana Energy Saver Program assists Hoosiers in reducing their energy costs and improving home comfort through no-cost energy audits and rebates on energy efficiency upgrades. There are two rebate offerings through a single application process for both single family and multifamily residents.

  • The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit or 25C tax credit, allows homeowners to claim 30% of expenses associated with qualified energy efficiency improvements made through December 31, 2025.

  • The Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit, or 25D tax credit, allows homeowners to claim 30% of expenses associated with clean energy upgrades, such as solar panels, geothermal, and batteries.

  • The Indiana Energy Independence Fund is a nonprofit green bank offering Indiana homeowners versatile financing for capital-intensive projects like energy efficient lighting and HVAC, indoor air quality, water efficiency equipment, and more. 

Those having difficulties paying their utility bills could benefit from payment assistance programs like:

  • The Energy Assistance Program, commonly referred to as IndyEAP, provides a one-time benefit (per application cycle) that can assist income-eligible households in Marion County with the high cost of home energy. The application is open now and will close April 20, 2026. Note: The program assists with electricity and heating but does not assist with water bills. 

  • The Power of Change program, administered by Dollar Energy Fund, provides AES customers with electric bill assistance via a one-time grant. The program is open from now through September 30, 2026, for services that are off or in threat of termination. Note: You must apply for EAP first.

  • Citizen Energy Group’s Warm Heart Warm Home Foundation is a local nonprofit helping Hoosier families maintain utility service. This is a year-round program.

  • United Way of Central Indiana’s Winter Assistance Fund provides assistance to Marion County residents who do not qualify for federal assistance (EAP) but who still need help with water, gas, and electric bills during the winter months. Starting Jan. 1, 2026, qualifying Marion County residents can apply for help to pay their heating bills by contacting one of the 11 sites listed here. The program will run through March 31, 2026, or until funds run out.

  • Some Township Trustee Offices provide financial assistance and community resources to eligible residents who find themselves in need of temporary help. Contact the specific office for more information. 

This information is available as a downloadable PDF.

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Mads Gullion