I Need Help with Energy Costs

MaineHousing programs and resources - If you cannot afford to heat your home, pay electric bills, or would benefit from energy improvements such as additional insulation, a new heating system, or energy efficient appliances, help may be available from MaineHousing programs. Lower income households may qualify for heating assistance and energy improvements at no cost to them. Moderate-income households may qualify for low cost energy loans.

• Learn More about MaineHousing's Energy & Heating Assistance 

Other potential assistance - In some cases, other community resources may be available to help.

• 211Maine - 2-1-1 is an easy to remember telephone number that connects people in need with the community resources available to help meet those needs. The 211 website  offers an on-line searchable database of community resources available in Maine.
• General Assistance - is a program that provides funds for basic living expenses for those who cannot afford them. Applicants are required to verify income and living expenses. Contact your local town office for further information. Your local town office may also be aware of other available funds
• Rural Development Repair and Rehabilitation Program- Many people have old or inefficient heating systems that do not keep their homes warm enough, or consume large amounts of heating oil, which is very costly. USDA Rural Development's Repair and Rehabilitation Program may be able to offer an affordable solution for many of these people. Learn More .
• Efficiency Maine - offers programs to improve residential energy efficiency. Learn More 
• Other - Contact charitable or faith based organizations in your area for other possible assistance.

Do-it-yourself energy improvements - There are many things you can do to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Adding insulation and caulking around windows and doors are common examples. There are some great informational resources that can help you evaluate your home’s energy use and decide what home energy improvements make the most sense for you.

• Learn more about do-it-yourself energy improvements