Your Energy Matters

In case you missed it, WHAS 11 last Friday took a tour of our Ky. State Fair Booth. We've had a presence at the fair for many years, but this year is a special one for us, as we're celebrating more than 100 years of service.

To provide customers and fairgoers a closer look at our legacy, we created a centennial display that provides a historical overview of our company. It also includes a variety of interesting artifacts from over the years. The Ky. State Fair kicked-off the festivities.

Our booth also featured information on our many energy efficiency programs, designed to help you save energy and money.

Check out the WHAS 11 story below, and until next time, keep using energy wisely.

LG&E and KU launch the new Home Energy Rebates Program


By Liz Pratt

When you consider how you use energy at home, up to 70 percent of your energy use may be attributed to heating, cooling and appliances.

If you plan to make upgrades in these areas, Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company want to help make these major energy users even more affordable.

LG&E and KU now offer home energy rebates, ranging from $50 to $300 for various ENERGY STAR®-qualified appliances, as well as high-efficiency window film and HVAC systems.

Click here for more information about each rebate category and rebate eligibility guidelines.

Make sure to look for the ENERGY STAR label if you plan to purchase a new refrigerator, freezer, clothes washer, heat pump water heater or dishwasher. A full list of ENERGY STAR^® appliances and products is available at www.energystar.gov.


Already made the upgrade?

Did you already purchase a qualifying appliance or product during last year’s Black Friday sales? Qualified appliances and products purchased after November 9, 2011 are eligible for rebates.

To start your rebate application, sign in to My Account to begin your online application or call 1-800-356-5467.

Although the outside temperature is still at a comfortable 65 degrees, it's only a matter of time before the heat and humidity of summer are upon us.

Now is the time to take action to gain better control over your energy usage heading into the summer months. The good news is that we're here to help, and we have programs and services to make your home more energy efficient, without sacrificing comfort.

Here are five simple ways to get started:

1. Perform an online home energy analysis:

A lot of time, people want to save energy, but they don't know where to start. Our online home energy analysis allows you to answer a few questions about your home and then we generate a 19-page report that provides a list of energy-saving recommendations based on your home's actual energy usage.

The report also provides an estimate of how much it will cost to make improvements and what the return on your investment might look like. To get started, simply click here to register your LG&E or KU account. 

2. Schedule an on-site home energy analysis:

If you prefer the assistance of a professional, you can sign up for an on-site home energy analysis for just $25. Our certified technician will visit your home to help you develop a customized list of energy-saving measures.

The technician will use specialized equipment, such as a blower door, to analyze your home's energy efficiency and check for leaks and drafts. You will also receive energy-saving products such as compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs and water restrictors to help you get started without making major changes.

After the analysis, you will receive a detailed report that outlines your energy usage. It will include a list of energy-saving measures appropriate for your home and an estimate of what it will cost to apply those measures.

3. Get your A/C tested and, if needed, tuned up:

You want to make sure your A/C system is operating as efficiently as it possibly can. Proper system maintenance also can help you stay comfortable and avoid costly repairs down the road.

LG&E and KU supplement the cost of both services to make the A/C tests and tune-ups more affordable for customers. Certified local service providers partner with our program to offer these services at the following discounted rates:

-- Tests for $35 per system older than three years.
-- Tune-ups if needed for an additional $50 per system older than three years.

Click here for more information and to request an inspection.

4. Enroll in Demand Conservation:

This program helps us better control peak energy demand and delay the need for additional generation.

When you sign-up for Demand Conservation, we'll install a switch on your central air conditioning system, heat pump, electric water heater and/or pool pump to safely cycle the systems' air compressors for brief periods during times of peak energy use during the summer months.

For joining this worthwhile program, LG&E and KU will credit your energy bill up to $5 per month for each of the summer months, June through September. Click here to learn more about the program and how you can sign-up.

5. Become a smart-saver:

We have a variety of no-cost and low-cost ways to help you become a better energy manager of your home. Check out our "energy efficiency tips" page to learn more about how you can use energy wisely. 

Lastly, if you're more of a visual person, check out a recent news story about some of our programs and learn more about how you can prepare now, before the dog days of summer set in: