Winter heating bills can certainly impact the household budget if the members of the home aren’t conscious of their energy usage. On this page you will find suggestions for saving energy, links to informational Consumer Tips, and a wide range of other helpful consumer resources. We all need to “Be WinterWise” even though natural gas prices appear to be relatively stable while propane and heating oil prices are a function of the weather.

Investigate the following tips to ensure a warm and cozy winter.

Shut-Off Protection - Senior citizens, low-income customers and military personnel may qualify for shut-off protection through various programs. Contact your utility company.

Plan Ahead - Many utility companies have Budget Billing Plans that can spread out your peak winter heating bills, allowing for a more affordable monthly bill during the heating season. Contact your utility company to find out if they offer Budget Billing.

Use Energy Wisely - Reduce your energy use. More information on ways to conserve can be found by following the “Energy Savers” link below.

Request Assistance - Click on the link below to contact “2-1-1”, which provides contact information on various organizations (sorted by county) that may help pay your heating bills.

Be Helpful - Share this information with family and friends! If you are able, lend a helping hand to your neighbors and make a donation to organizations that provide energy assistance.

		2-1-1 Provides information on private and public programs that offer energy assistance, and a county by county listing of utilities, programs, and resources available.
		Energy Savers Tips on saving money and energy at home.
		Energy Demonstation Centers Program activities to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy.
		Energy Star Products Install energy efficient lighting, appliances, etc.
		Coalition to Keep Michigan Warm For more information about what is happening with federal and state funding for low-income energy assistance, please visit the Coalition to Keep Michigan Warm.