Energy Awareness Month is observed during October. As the month wraps up, autumn leaves fall and the weather starts to cool, now is the perfect time for folks to make some simple changes that can help save money and energy in their homes, businesses and communities.

Nicor Gas Report

Since 2011, the Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program has helped more than 1.35 million customers save over 235 million therms – that’s enough to fuel more than 162,000 homes for one year – through weatherization offerings and other incentives totaling over $270 million. Those avoided emissions, made possible through energy efficiency, equate to 1.24 million metric tons of carbon dioxide.

During Energy Awareness Month, the Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program is sharing simple, affordable tips customers can put into action to save money and energy on their monthly energy bill: 

Use a programable or smart thermostat – Setting a programmable thermostat to a lower setting when away from home can help reduce energy costs by approximately 10%. Smart thermostats can automatically learn household daily schedules and adjust accordingly during the day or night to maximize energy savings.
Caulk air leaks – Sealing cracks and openings in homes help keep warm air in and cold air out. Weatherizing with insulation and duct sealing can help with year-round comfort and maximize energy efficiency.
Get equipment tune-ups – HVAC systems and water heaters should be inspected annually to help prevent mechanical issues and ensure efficient operations, as well as peace of mind.

For a full list of energy efficiency tips, visit nicorgas.com/tips. Nicor Gas also offers energy efficiency solutions for customers, including:

Free energy-saving kits – Nicor Gas customers can request free water-saving and weatherization kits. The water-saving kit includes a high-efficiency showerhead, bathroom faucet aerator, dual-spray kitchen faucet aerator, shower timer and plumber’s tape. The weatherization kit includes outlet and switch foam gaskets, closed cell foam tape weatherstripping, V-seal type weatherstripping, self-adhesive door sweep and rope caulk.
Find a contractor – The Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program provides a free online database of qualified contractors for natural gas-saving home, commercial, multi-family property or industrial projects.
Apply for a rebate – Customers that are homeowners can apply for rebates for energy-saving products, equipment and services including smart thermostats, furnaces, boilers, air sealing and insulation.

To learn more about the Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program, visit nicorgas.com/waystosave. 

Nicor Gas

Nicor Gas is one of four natural gas distribution companies of Southern Company Gas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO). Nicor Gas serves more than 2.3 million customers in a service territory that encompasses most of the northern third of Illinois, excluding the city of Chicago. For more information, visit nicorgas.com.

Southern Company Gas

Southern Company Gas is a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE:SO), America’s premier energy company. Southern Company Gas serves approximately 4.4 million natural gas utility customers through its regulated distribution companies in four states and more than 600,000 retail customers through its companies that market natural gas. Other nonutility businesses include investments in interstate pipelines, asset management for natural gas wholesale customers and ownership and operation of natural gas storage facilities.