On Wednesday, June 8, the Clinton Energy Task Force hosts a workshop on residential energy savings programs offered through Energize Connecticut, a program of the Energy Efficiency Fund, Connecticut Green Bank, the state, and local electric and gas utilities.

The Energy Conservation Workshop, which is free and open to the public, will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Community Room of the Henry Carter Hull Library.

“We’re kicking off our energy education series,” said Task Force Chair Paul Gebauer, “by showing residents what savings are available to them—starting with the popular Home Energy Solutions (HES) program, which helps people lower their energy bills. There will also be information on financing programs for converting to natural gas as well as adding solar panels. Everyone who attends will learn about rebates, financing options, and other incentives offered through Energize Connecticut and the Green Bank.”

Residents will be able to sign up to have an Eversource-authorized energy specialist come to their homes and professionally seal critical air leaks, replace incandescent lights with energy-efficient bulbs, and insulate hot water pipes—services valued at up to $1,000. The cost for residents who take part in the HES program will be only $99, with fees waived for income-eligible residents.

According to Gebauer, the average home in Connecticut saves approximately $250 a year after the first HES visit.

Potential savings from HES come on top of lower electricity rates, beginning this summer, for Connecticut’s Eversource and United Illuminating customers.

Declining wholesale prices for natural gas—a key fuel for the state’s power-generating plants—have resulted in a revised standard rate for electricity, which takes effect July 1. The standard rate for Eversource customers will drop from the current 9.555 cents per kilowatt hour to 6.606 cents/kWh. UI customers will see a decrease from 10.7358 cents/kWh to 8.0224 cents. The new lower rates will be in effect from July until Dec. 31, 2016.

In addition, for each Clinton resident who participates in HES, a $25 donation will go to Families Helping Families. FHF provides food, fuel assistance, school supplies, and other necessities to Clinton neighbors in need. Donations will be made by Eversource-authorized energy contractors New England Smart Energy and Energy Resource Group.