Lower Your Energy Costs in New Jersey

Lower Your Energy Costs In New Jersey

How New Jersey Seniors Can Lower Their Energy Bills in 2025

New Jersey seniors living on fixed incomes often feel the pinch when winter heating bills arrive or summer air-conditioning costs spike. Fortunately, several proven strategies and state-specific programs can cut energy expenses significantly—sometimes by hundreds of dollars a year—without sacrificing comfort.

Take Advantage of New Jersey's Senior-Specific Assistance Programs

The Lifeline Credit/Tenants Lifeline Assistance Program provides up to $225 annually to eligible seniors aged 65+ or receiving Social Security disability. The Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD) program automatically qualifies you for Lifeline—no separate application needed if you're already enrolled in PAAD.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Universal Service Fund (USF) can pay a portion of your heating and electric bills and may include crisis assistance if you're facing shut-off. Income limits for a single senior in 2025 are around $48,000 or less (higher for couples). Apply through your county agency or call 1-800-510-3102.

Enroll in the NJ Comfort Partners Program (It's Free for Income-Eligible Seniors)

Comfort Partners is New Jersey's free energy-efficiency program run by your utility. If your income is at or below 250% of federal poverty guidelines (about $37,650 for one person in 2025), technicians will visit your home at no cost and install:

• Energy-efficient LED bulbs
• New refrigerator or AC unit if yours is very old
• Water heater insulation
• Pipe insulation and faucet aerators
• Smart power strips

Many seniors save $200–$400 per year after these upgrades. Call 800-915-8309 to see if you qualify.

Sign Up for Budget Billing / Level Payment Plans

PSE&G, JCP&L, ACE, and other NJ utilities offer levelized billing that spreads your annual costs into equal monthly payments. This prevents huge winter spikes that are especially hard on fixed incomes.

Simple No-Cost and Low-Cost Home Changes That Add Up Fast

• Set thermostat to 68°F in winter when home and awake; lower to 60–62°F when sleeping or away
• In summer, set AC to 78°F or higher when home; use ceiling fans to feel cooler
• Close blinds/curtains on south- and west-facing windows during summer days
• Wash clothes in cold water and air-dry when possible
• Unplug electronics and chargers when not in use (they draw "vampire" power)
• Seal drafts around doors and windows with weather-stripping or caulk (under $20 at any hardware store)
• Lower water heater temperature to 120°F

Get a Free or Low-Cost Home Energy Audit

NJ Clean Energy Program offers audits for as little as $0–$50 for seniors. The auditor identifies exactly where you're losing energy and prioritizes fixes. Visit njcleanenergy.com or call 866-NJSMART.

Consider the Senior Citizen Electric & Gas Discount

If you are 62 or older, receive SSI (not regular Social Security), and your utility accounts are in your name, you may qualify for additional monthly discounts on your PSE&G or other utility bills. Contact your utility directly to apply.

Quick Action Checklist for New Jersey Seniors

• Apply for LIHEAP/USF before the season starts (opens October 1)
• Call Comfort Partners at 800-915-8309 for free upgrades
• Enroll in levelized budget billing with your utility
• Schedule a home energy audit through NJ Clean Energy
• Make the easy thermostat and habit changes today

Taking even a few of these steps can lower a typical senior household's energy bills by 20–40% or more—money that stays in your pocket for medications, groceries, or simply enjoying retirement.