I&M announces energy-saving, payment assistance programs for income-qualified customers

Andrew S. Hughes, South Bend Tribune
·2 min read

FORT WAYNE — For October’s National Energy Awareness Month, Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) reminds qualified customers of available payment assistance programs and other energy-saving practices:

• Saving Energy at Home: Poorly sealed windows and thinning insulation can significantly raise energy costs. A free Home Energy Checkup can identify ways to save for income-qualified customers. During this checkup, homeowners will walk through their home with an I&M energy expert to identify any existing concerns. They can also receive a free kit with energy-saving products (valued at $75).

Some homeowners participating in a Home Energy Checkup may qualify for I&M to cover the full cost (up to $4,000) of weatherproofing for their home.

For more information and to schedule a Home Energy Checkup, call 833-566-0583 or visit indianamichiganpower.com.

• Payment Assistance Options: State-specific assistance programs can help keep bills manageable and the lights on. Customers can access information about organizations in Indiana and Michigan assisting with local and federal assistance programs.

• Senior Citizen Discount Rate: Eligible Michigan customers can save up to $30 a month with the Senior Citizen Discount Rate, a program for Michigan residents age 65 or older using less than 900 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy a month. The senior rate also provides customers with a 50% discount on the monthly service charge. This rate is only available for the primary residence of the customer.

• Flexible Payment Options: A payment extension may be the necessary option for customers requiring a few extra days to pay a bill in full. Payment arrangements are also available to help spread payments out over a few months.

• Local and Federal Assistance: I&M continually works with local and federal organizations to help customers pay their utility bills. Anyone can call 211 or visit 211.org for information regarding utility, housing, healthcare and other types of assistance available.

• Energy-Saving Tips: Monthly furnace filter cleanings can remove dust and dirt that can make a furnace run harder and potentially break down. Incorporating basic energy-saving practices can help ensure savings on a monthly bill.

For additional energy-saving tips, visit electricideas.com/home to find products, rebates and discounts.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Energy-saving, payment assistance programs available from I&M