News Release

WMECo Urges Customers to go Green this St. Patrick’s Day

Spring cleaning becomes spring ‘greening’

Springfield, Massachusetts (March 13, 2013) – Springtime may be one of the best times to go green and make home improvements that will actually save money while improving energy efficiency—and WMECo customers don’t have to go in search of a “pot of gold” to pay for them. They can start by scheduling a home energy audit. It’s free and keeps coins in their wallet.

Caulking, sealing and energy stripping are not just for winter. During the summer months, sealing gaps, holes and air leaks helps to hold in the cool while keeping hot outside air from seeping in. WMECo customers can receive up to 75 percent off the cost (up to $2,000) to install additional insulation and air sealing, and may qualify for a zero-interest loan through the Heat Loan program. Read all about it:

Get a ceiling fan. Effective circulation can make a room feel cooler and reduce air conditioning bills by up to 40%. For maximum energy savings consider an Energy Star rated brand: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=find_a_product.showProductGroup&pgw_code=CF

New Central Air Conditioning units are far more energy efficient than older models. When putting in central air remember to look for the Energy Star label. The more efficient the system, the better the rebate. For more information call (877) 333-8153 or visit WMECo’s website: http://www.wmeco.com/residential/saveenergy/energyefficiencyprograms/default.aspx

Change or clean air conditioner filters regularly. A dirty filter slows air flow and makes the system work harder—wasting energy and leading to expensive maintenance and even early system failure: http://www.masssave.com/residential/heating-and-cooling/year-round-comfort/heating-cooling-energy-saving-tips

Get rid of second refrigerators and freezers. Using an old, inefficient frig to keep a couple of sodas cold can add over a hundred dollars a year to electricity bills. WMECo will pick up that second unit, recycle it and give you a rebate.
http://ow.ly/iPsZP

Western Massachusetts Electric Company (WMECo), a Northeast Utilities company (NYSE:NU), transmits and delivers electricity to 210,000 customers in 59 cities and towns. For more information, please visit our website: www.wmeco.com, like us on Facebook (facebook.com/WMECo) and follow us on Twitter @wmeco.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Priscilla Ress
413-787-1055
priscilla.ress@nu.com