1. What are the major energy efficiency programs currently available for residents in Illinois?

There are several major energy efficiency programs available for residents in Illinois, including:

1. Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs: These programs offer cash incentives to residents who make energy efficient upgrades to their homes, such as installing energy-efficient appliances or making weatherization improvements.

2. Home Energy Assessments: Utility companies in Illinois offer free or discounted home energy assessments to help residents identify areas where they can save energy and money.

3. Energy Efficient Appliance and Lighting Programs: Many utility companies and retailers in Illinois offer rebates on the purchase of ENERGY STAR certified appliances and LED lighting.

4. Low-Income Assistance Programs: The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers financial assistance to low-income households for heating and cooling costs. There are also utility bill assistance programs offered by some utility companies.

5. Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP): This program provides free weatherization services, such as insulation, air sealing, and furnace repairs or replacements, to income-eligible households.

6. Renewable Energy Incentive Programs: The Illinois Solar for All program offers incentives for low-income households to install solar panels on their homes.

7. Smart Thermostat Rebate Programs: Some utilities in Illinois offer rebates for the installation of smart thermostats, which can help homeowners save money on their energy bills by automatically adjusting the temperature based on occupancy and temperature preferences.

8. Residential Loan Programs: Residents may be eligible for low-interest loans through various state agencies to make energy efficiency improvements to their homes.

9. Net Metering: Customers who generate their own electricity from renewable sources such as solar panels may be eligible to receive credits on their electric bills through net metering programs offered by some utilities in Illinois.

10. Educational Resources: Several organizations and government agencies provide educational resources, such as workshops and online tools, to help residents understand how they can save energy at home and take advantage of available programs and incentives.

2. How can residents of Illinois benefit from participating in energy efficiency programs?

1. Lower energy bills: By participating in energy efficiency programs, residents can lower their monthly energy bills by reducing their overall energy consumption.

2. Increased comfort: Energy efficiency upgrades can also improve the comfort levels of a home by providing better temperature control and reducing drafts or hot spots.

3. Environmental impact: By using less energy, residents can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment.

4. Rebates and incentives: Many energy efficiency programs offer rebates or financial incentives for participating, which can further offset the cost of upgrades and improvements.

5. Improved air quality: Energy efficient homes also tend to have better indoor air quality, as they are designed to be more airtight and have improved ventilation systems.

6. Increased property value: Homes with energy efficient upgrades may have a higher resale value compared to similar homes without these upgrades.

7. Job creation and economic benefits: Participating in energy efficiency programs supports local job growth in the clean energy sector, contributing to the state’s economy.

8. Education and awareness: Energy efficiency programs often provide educational resources and information on how residents can save even more on their energy usage, promoting long-term sustainable habits.

9. Community impact: When many residents participate in energy efficiency programs, it can have a positive impact on the community’s overall energy usage and help decrease strain on local infrastructure.

10. Access to technology and resources: By participating in these programs, residents gain access to new technologies and resources for making their homes more efficient, which they may not have otherwise been aware of or able to afford.

3. What kind of financial incentives or rebates are available for residents who participate in energy efficiency programs in Illinois?

There are several financial incentives and rebates available for residents who participate in energy efficiency programs in Illinois, including:

1. Illinois Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program: This program offers rebates to homeowners who purchase eligible Energy Star appliances, such as refrigerators, freezers, and dishwashers.

2. Illinois Home Performance with ENERGY STAR: This program provides incentives to homeowners who complete energy efficiency upgrades to their homes, including insulation, air sealing, and HVAC system improvements.

3. Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program: This program offers rebates for various energy-efficient upgrades, such as high-efficiency furnaces and boilers.

4. ComEd Residential Energy Efficiency Program: This program offers rebates and incentives for installing energy-efficient lighting and appliances, as well as for completing home energy assessments.

5. Ameren Illinois ActOnEnergy programs: These programs provide various incentives and rebates for energy efficiency upgrades in the home, including insulation, air sealing, heating and cooling systems, and smart thermostats.

6. Peoples Gas Natural Gas Savings Program: This program provides cash incentives for upgrading to a high-efficiency natural gas furnace or boiler.

Residents can also qualify for federal tax credits for certain energy-efficient home improvements, such as installing solar panels or geothermal heat pumps. Additionally, many utility companies offer discounts or credits on monthly bills for participating in demand response programs or using smart thermostats to reduce energy usage during peak hours.

4. Are there any specific programs geared towards low-income residents in Illinois to help them improve their energy efficiency?

1. The Illinois Home Energy Assistance Program (IHEAP) provides financial assistance to low-income households to help pay for energy bills.

2. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program that assists low-income households with their energy costs.

3. The Single-Family Affordable Solar Homes (SASH) Program offers incentives and rebates for low-income homeowners to install solar panels on their homes.

4. The Illinois Weatherization Assistance Program helps low-income families reduce their energy bills by improving the energy efficiency of their homes through measures such as insulation, weather stripping, and furnace repairs or replacements.

5. The Savers Energy Efficiency Program offers free home energy assessments and installation of energy-saving measures at no cost to eligible households.

6. The ComEd Residential Retrofit Program provides free energy-saving products and services, such as LED light bulbs and smart power strips, to income-qualified customers.

7. Ameren Illinois offers several programs for income-qualifying customers, including weatherization assistance, discounts on monthly utility bills, and free home energy audits.

8. The Peoples Gas Share the Warmth program provides financial assistance for heating costs to eligible low-income customers.

9. The Nicor Gas Sharing program offers bill payment assistance to eligible customers who are experiencing temporary financial hardship.

10. Community Action Agencies in Illinois also offer various programs and services for low-income residents, including energy bill payment assistance, weatherization assistance, and education on energy conservation practices.

5. Are there any mandatory energy efficiency initiatives that residents must adhere to in Illinois?

There are no mandatory energy efficiency initiatives that residents must adhere to in Illinois, but the state has implemented various programs and incentives to encourage energy efficiency. Some cities and municipalities may have their own specific requirements or guidelines for energy efficiency in residential properties.

6. Where can residents find information on how to reduce their energy usage and save money through efficient practices in Illinois?

Residents in Illinois can find information on how to reduce energy usage and save money through efficient practices on the websites of the following organizations:

1. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Office of Energy & Recycling: This agency offers a variety of resources on energy efficiency, including tips for saving energy at home, utility rebate programs, and information on energy-saving products and technologies.

2. The Illinois Energy Conservation Code: This code outlines requirements for buildings to maximize their energy efficiency, and includes information on insulation, HVAC systems, lighting, and more.

3. The Citizens Utility Board (CUB): CUB is a non-profit organization that advocates for Illinois consumers by providing education and assistance with managing utility bills. Their website offers tips for reducing energy usage and saving money, as well as information on energy audits and rebates.

4. Ameren Illinois’ Energy Efficiency Program: This program offers financial incentives for customers who make energy-efficient upgrades to their homes or businesses. Their website provides information on available rebates and other energy-saving opportunities.

5. ComEd’s Energy Efficiency Program: Similar to Ameren Illinois, ComEd also offers rebates and incentives to customers who make improvements to their homes or businesses that result in increased energy efficiency. Their website has resources for finding energy-saving products, calculating potential savings, and applying for rebates.

In addition to these organizations, residents can also consult their local utility company’s website or contact them directly for information on available programs and resources for reducing energy usage and saving money through efficient practices.

7. What role do utilities play in promoting and implementing energy efficiency programs for residents in Illinois?

Utilities play a key role in promoting and implementing energy efficiency programs for residents in Illinois. As regulated entities, utilities are required to meet certain energy efficiency targets set by the state government. To do so, they offer various programs and incentives to encourage residents to use energy more efficiently.

One of the primary ways utilities promote energy efficiency is through education and outreach. This may include providing information on how to reduce energy consumption, conducting home energy audits, and offering tips on how to make homes more energy-efficient.

In addition, utilities often offer financial incentives such as rebates or discounts for purchasing Energy Star certified appliances or for making home improvements that improve overall energy efficiency. These can include upgrading to LED lighting, installing programmable thermostats, or improving insulation.

Utilities also work with local governments and organizations to implement community-wide programs that promote energy efficiency. For example, they may partner with municipalities to offer free or discounted home weatherization services for low-income households, or collaborate with community organizations to provide educational workshops on energy-saving techniques.

Overall, utilities are important partners in promoting and implementing energy efficiency programs for residents in Illinois. By working together with consumers and other stakeholders, they can help reduce overall energy consumption and costs while contributing towards a more sustainable future for the state.

8. How does the state government support and encourage the adoption of energy-efficient products and practices among residents in Illinois?

There are several ways in which the state government supports and encourages the adoption of energy-efficient products and practices among residents in Illinois:

1. Financial Incentives: The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) offers various financial incentives to homeowners and businesses who invest in energy efficiency. These include rebates, tax credits, and low-interest loans for upgrades such as insulation, heating and cooling systems, and renewable energy systems.

2. Energy Efficiency Standards: The Illinois Energy Code sets minimum energy efficiency standards for new residential and commercial buildings to ensure that they are built with energy-saving measures in mind.

3. Consumer Education: The DCEO also provides resources and information to educate consumers about the benefits of energy efficiency, including tips on how to reduce their energy consumption and save money on their utility bills.

4. Utility Programs: Many utilities in Illinois offer programs that provide incentives or rebates for energy-efficient products, such as appliances, lighting, and HVAC systems.

5. Appliance Rebate Program: The state’s Energy Star appliance rebate program offers cash rebates for purchasing eligible high-efficiency appliances.

6. Home Energy Audits: Residents can also get free or discounted home energy audits through various utility programs to identify areas where they can improve energy efficiency.

7. Green Building Incentives: The state offers property tax breaks for homeowners who build or renovate homes that meet certain green building standards.

8. Energy Efficient Building Grants: Through the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation, grants are available for building projects that incorporate measures for improved energy efficiency.

9. Outreach Campaigns: The state government conducts outreach campaigns to promote awareness of the benefits of energy efficiency among residents through various media outlets, events, and workshops.

10. Statewide Initiatives: Illinois participates in regional initiatives such as the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (MEEA) to promote statewide efforts towards promoting residential energy efficiency.

9. Are there any special considerations or incentives for residents who live in older homes or buildings to make them more energy-efficient in Illinois?

There are several programs and incentives available for residents living in older homes or buildings to make them more energy-efficient in Illinois:

1. Energy Efficiency Programs: The state of Illinois offers a variety of energy efficiency programs such as the Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP) and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which provide funding for energy efficiency upgrades for low-income households.

2. Property Tax Incentives: Some local governments in Illinois offer property tax incentives for homeowners who make energy-efficient improvements to their homes.

3. Utility Company Incentives: Many utility companies in Illinois offer rebates and financing options for energy-efficient upgrades, such as insulation, HVAC systems, and lighting.

4. Federal Tax Credits: The federal government offers tax credits for certain energy-efficient home improvements, including windows, doors, roofing, and HVAC systems.

5. Historic Preservation Tax Incentives: If your home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places or located in a designated historic district, you may be eligible for federal tax credits for approved restoration work that includes energy-efficient upgrades.

6. Free Energy Audits: Some utility companies and local organizations offer free energy audits to identify areas where your home may benefit from energy-efficient upgrades.

7. Nonprofit Programs: Nonprofit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity often have programs in place to help low-income homeowners make their homes more energy-efficient at little or no cost.

Overall, it is important to research and explore all available programs and incentives to determine which options are best suited for your specific situation and needs as a resident of an older home or building in Illinois.

10. Are there any educational resources or workshops available for residents interested in learning more about energy efficiency in Illinois?

There are several educational resources available for residents interested in learning more about energy efficiency in Illinois:

1. The Illinois Energy Office offers a variety of educational materials and resources, including fact sheets, guides, and webinars on energy efficiency topics.

2. The Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) provides technical assistance, training, and education on energy efficiency and renewable energy to businesses, institutions, and individuals in Illinois.

3. Your local utility company may also offer workshops or informational sessions on energy efficiency for their customers. Check with your utility’s website or customer service department for more information.

4. The Illinois Green Economy Network (IGEN) offers workshops and events focused on sustainable practices, including energy efficiency.

5. Local community colleges often offer courses or seminars on energy efficiency and sustainability that are open to the public.

6. The Illinois Sustainable Technology Center (ISTC) offers resources and training related to sustainable development and technology, including energy efficiency.

7. Online resources such as Energy Star’s website provide information on energy-saving tips and best practices for homeowners.

8. Non-profit organizations like Elevate Energy and Citizens Utility Board (CUB) offer workshops, webinars, and other educational events focused on energy efficiency in residential buildings.

9. Your local library may have books or other resources available for loan that can help you learn more about energy efficiency in Illinois.

10. Finally, check with your city or county government to see if they offer any programs or workshops related to energy efficiency specifically for residents within their jurisdiction.

11. Can renters also participate and benefit from energy efficiency programs for residents in Illinois, or are they only applicable to homeowners?

Renters can also participate and benefit from energy efficiency programs for residents in Illinois. In fact, many programs specifically target renters as they often have limited control over the energy efficiency of their homes. Some programs offer free or low-cost energy assessments and upgrades for rental properties, while others provide incentives for renters who make energy-efficient choices, such as purchasing ENERGY STAR appliances or using alternative transportation options. Renters should contact their local utility company or visit the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s website for information on specific programs available in their area.

12. What is the process for applying to a residential energy efficiency program in Illinois, and what documentation is required?

The process for applying to a residential energy efficiency program in Illinois may vary slightly depending on the specific program you are interested in. However, here is a general overview of the steps involved:

1. Determine your eligibility: Before applying, make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria for the program you are interested in. This may include household income limits, location requirements, and other factors.

2. Choose a program: Research and compare the different energy efficiency programs available in your area to find one that best fits your needs and goals.

3. Gather required documentation: Depending on the program, you may need to provide various supporting documents as part of your application. These may include proof of income, utility bills, and property ownership documents.

4. Contact the program administrator: Once you have chosen a program to apply for, contact the program administrator to get more information about the application process and any specific requirements.

5. Fill out an application form: The next step is to fill out an application form provided by the program administrator. In some cases, this can be done online or over the phone.

6. Submit your application: After filling out the application form, submit it along with any required documentation to the program administrator through email, mail, or in-person at their office.

7. Wait for approval: Once your application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by the program administrator. This process typically takes several weeks, so be patient while waiting for a decision.

8. Schedule an audit/assessment: If your application is approved, you will likely need to schedule an energy audit or assessment of your home before any upgrades can be made.

9. Complete upgrades/renovations: After receiving approval and completing any necessary audits or assessments, you can move forward with making energy efficiency upgrades or renovations according to the guidelines set by the program.

10. Receive rebates/incentives: After completing all necessary upgrades and renovations, you may be eligible to receive rebates or incentives from the program to help offset the costs.

11. Follow-up audits: Some programs may require follow-up audits to ensure that all upgrades were completed according to program guidelines and are functioning properly.

12. Maintain records: Finally, keep copies of all documentation related to your application, audits, and renovations for your records and any future reporting requirements.

13. Is it possible for neighborhood associations or communities to organize group efforts towards improving overall energy efficiency among its residents, with support from the state government?

Yes, it is possible for neighborhood associations or communities to organize group efforts towards improving overall energy efficiency among its residents. In fact, many community-based initiatives have been successful in promoting energy efficiency and sustainability. These initiatives can involve activities such as organizing workshops and information sessions, conducting energy audits, advocating for policy changes, and implementing community-wide efficiency programs.

The state government can provide support for these efforts in various ways, such as providing funding, technical assistance, and resources. Some states even offer grants or incentives specifically for community-based energy efficiency projects.

However, it is important to note that the success of these group efforts relies heavily on the participation and involvement of community members. It is essential for neighborhood associations or communities to actively engage and educate residents about the benefits of energy efficiency and motivate them to take action in their own homes.

14. Are there any specific requirements or guidelines that contractors must follow when offering services under a residential energy efficiency program authorized by the state of Illinois?

Yes, there are specific requirements and guidelines that contractors must follow when offering services under a residential energy efficiency program authorized by the state of Illinois. These include:

1. Licensing: Contractors must have a valid Illinois contractor’s license for the type of work they are performing.

2. Certification: Contractors must be certified by the state of Illinois to offer services under the residential energy efficiency program.

3. Insurance: Contractors must carry adequate liability insurance coverage for the duration of their participation in the program.

4. Training: Contractors must undergo training on energy efficiency measures and best practices in order to be eligible for participation in the program.

5. Code Compliance: All work performed by contractors must comply with applicable building codes and standards.

6. Consumer Protection: Contractors must abide by all consumer protection laws and regulations, including providing written contracts detailing scope of work, cost estimates, payment terms, and contact information.

7. Quality Assurance: Contractors may be subject to quality assurance tests and inspections to ensure that their work meets performance standards set by the program.

8. Marketing Guidelines: Contractors must adhere to marketing guidelines established by the program, which may include restrictions on advertising claims or product offers.

9. Safe Work Practices: All contractors are required to follow safe work practices to protect both workers and homeowners during installation or renovation projects.

10. Data Reporting: Participating contractors are required to provide regular reports on completed projects and submit relevant data for evaluation purposes.

11. Complaint Resolution: The program will have a process in place for addressing consumer complaints about contractor performance or issues related to quality of work.

12. Payment Terms: Contractors must disclose payment terms upfront, including any financing options available through the program.

13. Ethical Conduct: Participating contractors are expected to conduct themselves professionally and ethically at all times when dealing with customers and carrying out projects under the program.

14. Business Practices: Any business practices that are deemed unfair or deceptive may result in termination of the contractor’s participation in the program.

These requirements and guidelines are in place to ensure that contractors providing services under the residential energy efficiency program meet certain standards for quality, safety, and consumer protection. They also help to promote transparency and accountability in the implementation of the program.

15. How does the state measure progress and success of its various residential energy efficiency initiatives, and what goals has it set for future improvements?

To measure progress and success of its residential energy efficiency initiatives, the state may use several metrics such as:

1. Energy consumption reduction: This measures the impact of the initiatives in terms of actual energy savings achieved in the residential sector.

2. Greenhouse gas emissions reduction: This measures the amount of carbon dioxide emissions reduced due to improved residential energy efficiency.

3. Number of homes retrofitted: This tracks the number of homes that have undergone energy efficiency upgrades through state programs.

4. Cost savings: This measures the financial savings realized by households due to improved energy efficiency.

5. Customer satisfaction: Surveys or feedback from participants can be used to measure their satisfaction with the program and its effectiveness in improving their home’s energy efficiency.

6. Market transformation: This metric looks at the changes in market behavior and adoption of more energy-efficient practices and products in the residential sector.

The state may also set specific goals for future improvements, such as:

1. Increasing participation rates: The state may aim to increase the number of households participating in energy efficiency programs by a certain percentage.

2. Energy savings targets: The state may set targets for reducing overall household energy consumption or increasing the adoption of renewable energy sources.

3. Carbon emission reduction goals: The state may set specific targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from residential buildings.

4. Standardized measurement and verification protocols: The state may aim to establish standardized protocols for measuring and verifying energy savings across all its residential energy efficiency programs.

5. Building codes and standards: The state may set goals for updating building codes and implementing more stringent standards for new construction or renovations to improve overall building performance and reduce energy consumption.

Overall, setting clear goals and regularly tracking progress can help evaluate the effectiveness of existing initiatives and inform future policies for promoting residential energy efficiency.

16. Can senior citizens or individuals with disabilities receive additional assistance through residential energy efficiency programs in Illinois?

Yes, there are several programs available in Illinois that prioritize assistance for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. These programs include:

1. LIHEAP: The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides financial assistance to help eligible low-income households pay for their energy bills. Priority is given to households with seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families with young children.

2. SHINE: SHINE stands for S enior H ome I mprovement N eeds E liminated. This program is designed to assist low-income seniors aged 60 and over with home repairs and energy efficiency upgrades.

3. Weatherization Assistance Program: This program provides energy efficiency upgrades for low-income households, with priority given to households with seniors and individuals with disabilities.

4. Ameren Illinois “AI Assist” Program: This program offers bill credits, energy-saving measures, and personalized energy education to customers aged 65+ or those who receive disability benefits.

5.Elevate Energy’s Call It Home Program: This statewide program offers comprehensive home energy upgrades for qualified homeowners aged 50+ or those who have a documented medical need at no cost.

6.Senior REACH Program: Funded by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), this program provides free weatherization services to income-qualified seniors (aged 60+) living in affordable housing units across the state.

7.Illinois Homecare & Hospice Council Foundation Comfort Care Grant Program: This program offers financial assistance to hospice agencies serving low-income older adults (aged 55+) in rural areas of Illinois for non-medical expenses such as utility bills.

For more information on these programs and how to apply, you can contact your local utility company or visit the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s website at https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/CommunityServices/HomeWeatherization/Pages/SpecialPopulations.aspx .

17. Are there any initiatives in place to promote the use of renewable energy sources among residents in Illinois as part of its overall focus on energy efficiency?

Yes, there are multiple initiatives in place to promote the use of renewable energy sources among residents in Illinois. Some of these initiatives include:

1. Renewable Portfolio Standard: In 2017, Illinois passed legislation that aims to generate 25% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2025 and 100% renewable energy by 2050. This encourages utilities and suppliers to invest more in renewable energy sources.

2. Illinois Solar for All: This program provides financial incentives for low-income households and community organizations to install solar panels on their rooftops. It also creates job opportunities in the solar industry for individuals living in low-income communities.

3. Net Metering: This program allows homeowners with solar panels to send excess energy back into the grid, providing them with credits on their utility bills.

4. Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Program: This financing program assists homeowners and businesses in installing renewable energy systems by providing low-interest loans that are repaid through property taxes.

5. Community Solar Gardens: These projects allow multiple residents or businesses to receive power from a shared, off-site solar array.

Overall, these initiatives aim to not only promote the use of renewable energy sources but also make it accessible and affordable for residents throughout Illinois.

18. Is there a limit on how many times a resident can apply for or participate in an energy efficiency program in Illinois?

There is no specific limit on the number of times a resident can apply for or participate in an energy efficiency program in Illinois. However, each program may have its own eligibility criteria and requirements, so it is important to check with the specific program you are interested in to determine if you qualify for multiple rounds of participation.

19. What are the consequences for not adhering to certain energy efficiency standards set by the state for residential properties in Illinois, if any?

If a residential property does not adhere to certain energy efficiency standards set by the state of Illinois, there can be several potential consequences:

1. Fines or Penalties: The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) may issue fines or penalties for non-compliance with energy efficiency standards. These fines can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the severity of the violation.

2. Delays in Property Sale or Rental: Non-compliant properties may face delays in being sold or rented as they may not meet certain requirements for energy efficiency listed in contracts or regulations.

3. Loss of Incentives: Some utilities and government programs offer incentives and rebates for energy-efficient properties. If a property is found to be non-compliant, it may lose eligibility for these incentives.

4. Negative Impact on Property Value: Non-compliant properties may have lower market value due to their lack of energy efficiency, making them less appealing to buyers or renters.

5. Legal Action: In extreme cases, legal action may be taken against non-compliant properties, such as an injunction from the IEPA to cease operations until necessary improvements are made.

It is important for property owners in Illinois to stay up-to-date on energy efficiency standards and regulations to avoid these consequences and improve their property’s value, appeal, and environmental impact.

20. Are there any expected changes or updates to existing residential energy efficiency programs coming up soon in Illinois that residents should be aware of?

Yes, there are a few changes and updates to existing residential energy efficiency programs coming up in the near future:

1. Illinois Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Program (IHP): This program offers rebates and incentives for homeowners who make energy-efficient upgrades to their homes. Starting January 2022, IHP will have updated rebate amounts for qualified energy-saving measures such as insulation, air sealing, and HVAC systems.

2. Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program: The Nicor Gas program provides rebates for customers who install energy-efficient equipment in their homes. As of July 1, 2021, the program has been expanded to include new measures such as smart thermostats and geothermal heat pumps.

3. Ameren Illinois Residential Energy Efficiency Program: This program offers rebates on qualifying energy-efficient appliances and upgrades such as lighting fixtures, heating and cooling systems, and smart thermostats. Starting January 1, 2022, the program will introduce a new initiative called Peak Time Savings which will provide additional incentives for using less electricity during peak demand periods.

4. Peoples Gas & North Shore Gas Energy Efficiency Program: These programs offer rebates on efficient appliances and equipment like furnaces, boilers, water heaters, and smart thermostats. Effective January 1, 2022, these programs will offer enhanced incentives for low-income households through the Affordable Multi-Family Retrofit program.

Overall, residents should regularly check the websites of their utility providers or state energy office for updates on available residential energy efficiency programs. These programs often change or update their offerings to align with current technology advancements and state energy goals.