Winter utility bills can put serious pressure on household budgets before the coldest stretch of the season even begins. In Western New York, in-person help is available for customers to find programs that could reduce what they pay each month.
Here's what to know
According to WHEC, Rochester Gas and Electric and New York State Electric & Gas are holding a series of in-person assistance events in September and October.
At these events, customers can speak with utility representatives about their billing questions, hear about energy-efficiency resources, and check whether they qualify for ongoing bill credits through the Energy Assistance Program or the Enhanced Affordability Program.
RG&E and NYSEG are holding a series of events for people to learn about energy bill assistance programs. The first one is happening tomorrow at the Lewis Street YMCA. https://t.co/IogJPyvhz8
— News10NBC (@news10nbc) September 28, 2026
The first event took place in Rochester on Sept. 29. The next sessions are scheduled for Oct. 8 at 6500 W. Gannett Hill Rd. in Naples, and on Oct. 22 at Henrietta Town Hall in Henrietta.
RG&E and NYSEG said they expect to add more in-person events.
More background
Enrollment for the Home Energy Assistance Program, or HEAP, opens Nov. 1. The federally funded grant program, administered by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, helps low- and moderate-income households cover heating costs and home energy emergencies until available funds run out.
For homeowners looking for a longer-term way to cut utility costs, going solar is one of the best ways to save money on home energy. EnergySage is a great resource to obtain free solar installation estimates, compare quotes, and connect with vetted installers.
What can be done?
Customers who are unsure whether they qualify for energy-assistance programs — or who do not know which program best fits their situation — can get direct answers at one of the events.
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Help is also available by phone at 1-800-743-2110 for RG&E customers and 1-800-572-1111 for NYSEG customers, according to WHEC.
For homeowners who want to go beyond assistance programs, EnergySage can also be a valuable planning tool. With EnergySage's help, the average person can save up to $10,000 on solar purchases and installations.
EnergySage's solar map shows the average cost of a home solar panel system on a state-by-state level, along with details on solar panel incentives for each state. Together, these resources can help homeowners get the best price for rooftop solar panels.
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Where can I learn more?
If you're looking for other ways to cut utility costs, these stories cover incentives for home upgrades and other energy-saving tips.
• In many states, heat pump rebates can knock thousands off efficient HVAC upgrade costs.
• A customer organization says that washing clothes in cooler water could drastically cut energy costs.
• Proper insulation is an under-the-radar hack to keep winter energy bills low.
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