Kentucky residents facing higher electricity bills this summer have multiple ways to reduce energy consumption and save money through programs offered by Kentucky's Touchstone Energy Cooperatives, which serve more than 1 million customers across the state.

East Kentucky Power Cooperative, a not-for-profit generation and transmission utility, and its 16 member-owned distribution cooperatives are promoting energy-saving strategies as cooling demand peaks. Simple adjustments like raising thermostat settings can yield significant savings. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends maintaining a summer setting of 78 degrees, which can reduce energy use by 3 to 5 percent for each degree increase.

The cooperatives offer financial incentives for customers willing to invest in efficiency upgrades. Smart thermostats with Wi-Fi capability qualify for $100 rebates through SimpleSaver enrollment. Air sealing and insulation improvements through the Button-Up weatherization program can earn households up to $1,875 in rebates, making it an inexpensive way to lower energy costs while improving home comfort.

For those experiencing difficulty affording weatherization work, the Community Assistance Resources for Energy Savings (CARES) program provides incentives to enhance services delivered through Kentucky Community Action Agencies, with maximum household incentives of $3,000.

Beyond rebate programs, energy experts emphasize low-cost behavioral changes. Free online energy audits identify problem areas in homes and recommend savings strategies tailored to individual needs. Cooperatives also suggest maintaining HVAC filters, closing window coverings during daylight hours, and using ceiling fans strategically to reduce overall cooling demand.

The timing is significant, as summer electricity bills nationally are projected to rise 8.5 percent amid higher fuel costs and utility rate changes. For more information on rebates and energy audits, customers should contact their local electric cooperative or visit togetherwesaveky.com/energyaudit/.