In the heart of northeastern Illinois, Evanston residents are gaining access to valuable resources aimed at reducing utility bills and enhancing home energy efficiency. Climate Action Evanston (CAE), a local organization dedicated to environmental sustainability, is spearheading an energy equity campaign to connect residents with essential programs, particularly those designed for low-income households.

As one of 37 grant recipients through a program facilitated by the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus (MMC), CAE’s campaign is led by Energy Efficiency Coordinator Izzy Franconeri. In late 2026, MMC distributed $880,000 from ComEd to grantees across the region, aiming to bridge the gap between energy efficiency services and the people who need them most.

Navigating Energy Efficiency Programs

Franconeri and Climate Coaches Coordinator Margaret Sprigg-Dudley have meticulously outlined various program offerings to assist residents. These programs fall into two main categories: direct utility bill assistance and improving home energy efficiency.

Direct Utility Bill Assistance

For those struggling with utility bills, several programs offer immediate relief. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides a one-time payment toward eligible home energy costs. Households with a gross income at or below 60% of the state median income may qualify. The application deadline is August 15.

The Low Income Discount (LID) launched in early 2026 by ComEd, offers monthly utility bill discounts ranging from 5% to 83% based on housing type and income level. Residents with an annual income at or below 300% of the federal poverty level are eligible, and LIHEAP users are automatically enrolled in this program.

Improving Home Energy Efficiency

To enhance home energy efficiency, the Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program offers free home assessments and weatherization services, such as insulation, air sealing, and water heater repair. Eligibility is based on an annual income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.

ComEd customers can also benefit from the Home Energy Savings program, which provides free in-home assessments and discounted energy-saving products like showerheads, power strips, and smart thermostats. The ComEd’s Multi-Family Energy Savings program is tailored for buildings with at least three residential units, encouraging landlords to apply for energy-saving upgrades.

Additionally, Nicor Gas customers can request free water and energy-saving kits, regardless of income level.

Utility Navigator Tools

Franconeri highlights the availability of utility navigator tools designed to reduce personal utility consumption. The ComEd Smart Assistance Manager tool offers an online assessment that supports grant applications, monthly utility payments, and past-due balance forgiveness. Similarly, the Nicor Gas Community Assessment Navigator provides an online portal with financial and energy-saving resources.

Understanding eligibility and application processes can be challenging. CAE provides free bus passes to applicants who need to visit intake sites outside Evanston. A comprehensive chart of the closest intake sites and how to get there is available to assist residents.

Reducing Personal Consumption

T. Manning, who leads CAE’s energy education and outreach programs, emphasizes that the biggest obstacle to energy savings is getting started. He notes, “If people do one thing, they’re much more likely to do a second thing. They do a second thing, they’re more likely to do a third.”

One of the easiest and most impactful ways to reduce electricity costs and support renewable energy is by subscribing to community solar. This allows customers to receive credits on their electric bills for electricity generated by an off-site solar project, without installing solar panels at their own homes. Residents remain customers of their existing utility, such as ComEd, while paying a community solar provider for their subscription.

The process is straightforward, and residents can learn more about different offerings through a webpage compiled by the Citizens Utility Board nonprofit. Manning emphasizes, “It only takes a few minutes to switch your supplier, and it has a gigantic impact in terms of the emissions reduction.”

CAE’s outreach program offers home consultations and one-on-one coaching every second Wednesday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Evanston Public Library’s main branch. Manning encourages residents to take small steps, such as adjusting thermostats, taking lukewarm showers, and turning off lights when not in use.

Franconeri underscores that there are programs available for everyone, regardless of financial situation or housing type. “No matter what your situation is financially, or what housing you’re in, there is something available that could help you save money and energy,” she said. “That’s the key.”