Frequently Asked Questions
This Q&A provides answers to customers' most frequently asked questions about energy efficiency.
Q: What is energy efficiency?
A: Being energy efficient means being smart about how we use energy in order to extend our supply, and benefit our economy, environment and quality-of-life. Whether you're a resident or a business, energy-efficiency solutions can easily reduce energy bills by 20- 30% — and help save the environment, too.
Q: What kinds of energy-efficiency programs does CL&P offer?
A: In addition to educational programs and resources for residential and business customers, we have developed a list of tips to assist our customers in using energy wisely. We also encourage customers to upgrade to the most energy-efficient technologies wherever possible.
Q: What are energy-efficient technologies?
A: State-of-the-art advancements in products such as insulation, windows, appliances, air conditioning, furnaces and lighting provide better quality energy services while using less energy. They also eliminate waste while providing comfort and convenience with less pollution and cost savings as well.
Q: Do energy-efficient products cost more?
A: Not necessarily. While some do have higher up-front costs, energy efficient products cost less to operate over the product's lifetime, offering better performance, as well. So it's important to compare the price of the product with what you will save on your monthly energy bill.
Q: How do energy-efficient products compare to standard products?
A: ENERGY STAR® qualified products perform as well or better than standard equipment, they simply help you maintain comfort and convenience while consuming less energy. By purchasing ENERGY STAR® qualified products, you will not sacrifice any performance features. To find ENERGY STAR® products, check with your local retailers or call toll-free 1-888-STAR-YES (782-7937). You can also visit www.energystar.gov to learn more.
Q: Can I get financial help to purchase ENERGY STAR® products?
A: There are resources available to help offset the initial costs of some products and systems. For more information, call ENERGY STAR® toll-free at 1-888-STAR-YES (782-7937) or visit www.energystar.gov.
Q: What is the "CT Clean Energy Options" program?
A: If you are a CL&P customer receiving Transitional Standard Offer service (TSO), you can choose a clean energy offering from one of the two independent, participating renewable energy companies, and a premium will be added to your CL&P bill. By doing so, you are supporting the development of renewable energy and making a difference for Connecticut's environment and future generations. Learn more.
Q: What companies are currently participating in the "CT Clean Energy Options" program?
A: You can choose from two DPUC-licensed clean energy companies, Community Energy and Sterling Planet. To learn more about these two clean energy companies, visit Community Energy or Sterling Planet.
Q: If I sign up for "CT Clean Energy Options", is the power coming to my house from renewable resources?
A: When you choose one of the clean energy companies, you are asking the supplier you select to arrange for you to financially support the renewable resources in the energy mix you selected. The clean energy premium you pay helps to support the generation of clean, renewable power.
Q: Is CL&P affiliated with the clean energy companies?
A: The two clean energy companies are independent of CL&P - neither are affiliates of ours. We make no profit from supporting this program or the development of renewable energy sources.
Q: What happens to my electricity if I enroll in "CT Clean Energy Options"?
A: CL&P will continue to deliver safe, reliable electricity to your home, send your monthly electric bill and restore your electricity during a power outage. This electricity will be supplied by the independent power suppliers that produce electricity for our TSO customers.
