The National Fuel Conservation Incentive Program

Older furnaces aren't nearly as fuel efficient as today's high-efficiency models. Even if it's still in good working condition, an older furnace could be using approximately 20% more fuel than a new, high efficiency furnace. One of your biggest opportunities for energy savings is upgrading to a high efficiency natural gas furnace. How much you save will depend on the size of your home, how well it is insulated, and how much fuel you currently use. You can estimate your personal fuel savings using the online calculating tool at the energystar.gov web site.

You can achieve even more long-term energy savings by making other energy efficiency improvements in your home or business. To find out more about NYSERDA's Home Performance with Energy Star program and its Commercial/Industrial Performance Program, click here.

Consider having your home evaluated to improve its energy efficiency. Through the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Program, a participating Building Performance Institute (BPI) Accredited Home Performance contractor will perform an assessment of your home, make recommendations for energy improvements and provide a cost estimate to do the improvements.
Make sure the recommended levels of insulation are installed in your attic, basement and walls (especially north-facing walls).
Replace old, inefficient space- and water-heating appliances with high efficiency natural gas models. Older furnaces aren't nearly as fuel efficient as today's high-efficiency models. Even if it's still in good working condition, an older furnace could be using approximately 20% more fuel than a new high-efficiency furnace. When you upgrade to an energy efficient natural gas heating system now, you can take advantage of National Fuel's Conservation Incentive Program rebates.
Consider upgrading to a tankless natural gas water heater. Though these are more expensive than traditional tank water heaters, they can save you up to 30% in fuel usage costs. When you consider that hot water accounts for 14% to 25% of the energy consumed in your home, the savings can be substantial. Even upgrading an older tank water heater with a new energy efficient tank water heater can result in sizeable energy savings.
Install storm or thermal windows and doors or double-paned glass. A less expensive alternative is plastic sheeting, which can be temporarily fastened over doors and windows to prevent drafts and retain heat.
When shopping for new appliances, compare energy efficiency ratings and annual operating costs. Sometimes a higher purchase price of a more efficient unit can be offset many times over by the annual energy savings over the appliance's lifetime. National Fuel's Conservation Incentive Program offers rebates when upgrading to qualifying energy efficient units.

Please note: space and water heating appliances must be installed by a contractor. Contractors must be able to supply one of the following: Federal ID number, a Certificate of Insurance or a Business Certificate showing their company's name and address in order for the rebate application to be considered complete.

Visit the following Web sites for more information on forecasted energy prices, detailed home energy conservation strategies, and materials to make your home more energy efficient:

Energy Federation Incorporated
American Gas Association
New York State Energy Research and Development Agency
Get your kids in on the energy-saving act with fun-filled educational games and activities at the
Energy Information Association website.
Energy Star

National Fuel offers billing arrangements or assistance programs designed to help you manage your energy bills. Now is a great time to consider enrolling in the Budget Plan to make paying wintertime bills easier.

We realize many customers require special assistance for a variety of reasons. We care about all of our customers and are available to personally assist you. Visit our Special Needs Programs page for an overview of the various services available.