New York: NYSERDA - EmPower New York

The primary focus of EmPower New York is to provide cost-effective electric reduction measures, such as replacement of refrigerators and installation of high efficiency lighting. This program also offers cost effective home performance measures such as insulation, air sealing and heating system repair or replacement, as well as health and safety measures. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), currently contracts with Honeywell International to implement the EmPower New York Program.

Funding is limited, and services will be targeted to customers on the basis of energy usage and the potential for energy-saving measures. In order to qualify customers must live in a building with 100 or fewer units, and either participate in a low income utility assistance program or have an income at 60% or less of the median income.

Participants must be an electric or natural gas distribution customer of one of the System Benefits Charge (SBC) participating utilities: Central Hudson, Con Edison, National Grid, NYSEG, Orange & Rockland, or Rochester Gas and Electric, or be a natural gas customer of Corning Gas, Keyspan Long Island, or Keyspan New York. Additional funding from other sources allows for service to additional households. As of this writing, expanded incentives for natural gas efficiency are available for customers of National Grid Gas and Con Edison Gas. There is no cost to the customer for these efficiency improvements. In rental situations, certain measures that directly benefit the eligible tenant are eligible without a landlord contribution. Additional measures generally require a 25% landlord contribution.