As winter approaches, Nevada families and seniors should be aware of their options to keep their energy costs down and save money. Lowering prices for Nevadans across our state is my priority, and bringing down the cost of utility bills is an important piece of that, especially in the colder months. That’s why I’m working to make it easier for Nevadans to upgrade their homes so they’re more energy efficient and cost families less to maintain.

I’m proud to have recently helped secure over $15 million to help Nevada families bring down their energy costs through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This program helps families afford their utility bills, reconnect energy services that have been disconnected, and prevent energy shutoffs. That’s important as the weather gets colder.

Thousands of Nevadans also use the Weatherization Assistance Program to help pay their energy bills and make critical upgrades to their homes in preparation for both the summer and winter seasons. The majority of these upgrades happen through weatherization. What that looks like ranges for every home, but examples include improving a home’s insulation, swapping out energy-intensive lights for efficient lighting, repairing or replacing heating and cooling systems, and removing mold. This program ensures Nevada seniors and families can upgrade their homes and save hundreds of dollars each year.

According to the Department of Energy, Nevada’s Weatherization Assistance Program has helped 714 families weatherize their homes and save money, and it’s made 1,086 buildings in our state more energy efficient. In Nevada, LIHEAP has helped at least 26,000 families upgrade their households and bring down their energy costs. This is making a difference for Nevadans across our state, and eligible seniors are encouraged to apply. 

Nevadans interested in applying for the Weatherization Assistance Program can visit housing.nv.gov/programs/weatherization. Nevadans interested in applying for LIHEAP can visit energyhelp.us or call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) hotline toll-free at 1-866-674-6327. 

I will continue working to bring down costs for Nevadans and ensure our families can access the housing resources they need. If you need any assistance this winter, I encourage you to reach out to my office.