O&R Teams Up With Local Libraries to Help Residents Cut Energy Bills

By Y.M. Lowy

Orange and Rockland Utilities is launching a new partnership designed to help customers lower their utility bills.

The Orange and Rockland Utilities has teamed up with HomeBoost and the Ramapo Catskill Library System to offer free do-it-yourself energy kits through more than 20 libraries in Rockland, Orange, and Sullivan counties.

The kit, called a BoostBox, includes a small thermal camera that connects to a smartphone. The camera allows users to scan doors, windows, and other areas of their home to see where heat may be escaping. After downloading the HomeBoost app, customers follow step-by-step instructions to complete a home energy check. They can also upload photos of their thermostat and major appliances.

Within a few days of submitting the information, participants receive a customized energy report by email. The report, valued at $99, is provided free through O&R. It includes suggestions for do-it-yourself improvements, along with information about rebates and incentive programs offered by the utility. Some recommendations may require hiring a professional contractor.

Last year, the company says its energy efficiency programs helped return more than $17 million to customers.

Early results from BoostBox users show many homes have room for improvement. Most participants are advised to add weather stripping or caulking around doors and windows. Many are encouraged to improve insulation or air sealing, and a large number receive recommendations for window treatments to reduce heat loss.

To participate, customers must have an active O&R account, a library card from the Ramapo Catskill Library System, and access to an iPhone or Android device.