NYSEG and RG&E Remind Customers about Tools to Manage Summer Energy Costs
Usage alerts and Energy Manager allow customers to take control of their monthly bills
Customers encouraged to call customer service representatives to learn about bill assistance options
BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — June 29, 2026 — New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) are reminding customers about the tools available to help manage summer energy costs. NYSEG and RG&E also continue to take steps to support customers in managing usage and accessing assistance when needed.
“With more time spent at home during summer breaks and vacations, it’s common to see higher energy use from air conditioners, fans, and pool pumps,” Patricia Nilsen, CEO of NYSEG and RG&E. “We want customers to know there are simple ways to stay in control of their bills—from using our free digital tools to exploring financial assistance options that can make a real difference.”
Customers can enroll on our website to receive automated notifications sent via text or email. Usage Alerts empower customers to save energy and lower bills by identifying patterns or sudden spikes in energy use, allowing them to make informed decisions. Usage Change alerts will tell a customer when daily usage is higher or lower than the past 30-day average for three days in a row. Customers can also receive a Usage Amount Exceeded alert, where they set a monthly energy use threshold and receive an alert if that amount is exceeded. An alert can also be sent weekly, providing energy consumption details.
Additionally, NYSEG and RG&E offer Energy Manager – a free and secure online tool that helps customers understand their energy usage by providing by-the-hour data for customers with a Smart Meter, and monthly data for customers without it.
Customers can take the following steps to help reduce energy consumption and manage summer costs:
- Use fans wisely — Ceiling fans can make a room feel up to 4 degrees cooler. Remember to turn them off when leaving the room.
- Turning the thermostat back 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting can save as much as 10% a year on cooling.
- Keep blinds and curtains closed on hot, sunny days to block heat from entering your home.
- Avoid using heat‑producing appliances like ovens, dishwashers, and dryers during the hottest parts of the day.
- Seal air leaks around windows and doors to keep cool air inside.
- Maintain your cooling system by cleaning or replacing filters regularly to improve efficiency.
- Use a smart or programmable thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures when you’re away or asleep.
NYSEG and RG&E encourage customers to take advantage of bill assistance programs such as Budget Billing, which is a financial plan that lets you pay a consistent amount each month based on your past energy use. This helps you avoid seasonal fluctuations and surprises on your bill, by spreading your energy costs evenly throughout the year.
Moderate-income customers can also apply for the Enhanced Energy Affordability Program (EEAP), designed to reduce their energy burden by providing monthly bill discounts directly to their energy bills. Customers can also apply directly for the program at www.nyeeap.com or by calling 877.400.2501.
To find out more about the resources to manage monthly energy usage visit: Summer Energy Tips - NYSEG - Summer Energy Tips - RGE.
Media Contact:
Alexis Arnold