As summer kicks into high gear and temperatures across the region hit the 90-degree mark, National Grid reminds customers that there are no-cost and low-cost methods of staying comfortable in the heat while reducing energy consumption and costs.

Simple energy efficiency steps can also reduce your energy usage. Closing window drapes and blinds during the day can block the sun’s light and heat into your home. Running fans along with air conditioning creates a windchill effect by distributing and circulating cold air throughout a room, allowing you to turn up your thermostat. Changing or cleaning the reusable filter in your air conditioner can improve air flow and efficiency.

National Grid also reminds its customers to make safety the first priority during extreme heat. Heat-related illnesses are preventable and have easy-to-recognize symptoms. Vulnerable individuals, including senior citizens, young children and those with chronic illnesses, are most susceptible to developing heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Learn the difference between these two conditions, their symptoms and preventative tips at our website.

National Grid recommends taking the following steps to make your home more energy efficient during the extreme heat: 

• Turn up the temperature on your thermostat. The lower you set your air conditioning temperature, the more costly it is to operate. For example, a 75-degree setting costs about 18% more than a 78-degree setting. Don’t compromise your comfort but use this to test how cold you really need it.

• Run fans with your air conditioning. Oscillating or box fans near your air conditioning vents create an air flow like winter windchills, as cold air is circulated throughout the room.

• Close your window coverings. Ambient sunlight can heat a room, and drawing your curtains and blinds can reduce the sun’s heating of your home and keep your air conditioning from running more than necessary.

• Turn off lights when you’re not using them. Turning lights off when you're not using them can help save money by reducing your electricity bills, extend the life of your light bulbs, and result in your buying bulbs less often.

• Think twice before starting your oven. Conventional and convection ovens can add unnecessary heat to your home, forcing your air conditioner to run unnecessarily. Keep the heat outside by using a grill or, if that’s not an option, consider using a microwave or slow cooker to do the job.

• Prep your home when you go on vacation. If there’s a road trip or beach vacation on your calendar, take a couple of extra steps such as turning up your thermostat to keep your air conditioning from running while no one is home. Unplug electronics with remote control or “instant on” features and save $4 a month.

Click here to learn about our residential, multi-family, and commercial energy efficiency programs, and find more information on ways to reduce your energy costs.

 Programs to help manage your bills

The impact of global events on energy supply markets and increased electric usage from pool filters, and room and central air conditioners will impact household budgets. To help reduce price volatility, the National Grid strategically buys energy supply and never marks up supply costs; customers pay what we pay.

One option for customers looking to manage their costs is to enroll in the Budget Billing Plan. Customers pay a monthly amount based on their average energy usage, spreading the costs across the course of time to provide a predictable monthly payment amount. We periodically review accounts and adjust payment amounts to keep customers on track if their usage increases or decreases. Participation is free of charge and can be discontinued at any time without penalty.

National Grid also provides various options for customers who need help paying their bills. To learn more, click here. In addition, National Grid Consumer Advocates are available to work with low-income and vulnerable customers to find the affordability programs that best fits their needs. The company’s Consumer Advocates provided assistance to nearly 31,000 households in 2021. To speak with a Consumer Advocate, call 1-800-642-4272.

National Grid also offers a variety of services and rebates for renters, homeowners and businesses. These include rebates on installation of wi-fi enabled thermostats, hot water pipe insulation, combination furnace-water heaters and thermostatic radiator valves.  For more information on available rebates click here.

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