Governor Jared Polis, the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC), Colorado Energy Office (CEO), and the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) are encouraging residents to take advantage of several programs designed to help lower energy bills and reduce costs for home energy upgrades as colder weather approaches.
“We are focused on saving Coloradans more on energy bills. Key to this effort is making it as easy as possible to get energy bill help when you need it, and take advantage of federal rebates before they expire. As we set our clocks back on Saturday, I encourage all Coloradans to explore energy-saving options you can choose to help lower their energy costs as much as possible during the winter months,” said Governor Jared Polis.
Starting November 1, applications open for the Federal Low Income Heating Program (LEAP), which offers one-time payments to assist with heating costs. The program is funded by Congress and provides eligible households with between $200 and $1,000 in assistance. However, state officials note that about 80% of those eligible do not use LEAP. Residents can also find utility-specific bill assistance through the PUC’s Utility Bill Help dashboard, which can limit natural gas and electric bills to a maximum of 6% of annual income.
“With the heating season starting soon, LEAP is a vital program that keeps thousands of Colorado households warm. Eligible families can expect to receive between $200 to $1,000 in energy assistance. These are valuable funds that they can then use towards essentials like rent and medications,” said CDHS Director of the Office of Economic Security Shelley Banker.
Federal rebates for heat pump systems, heat pump water heaters, home weatherization projects, electrical panel upgrades, and home energy audits remain available for two more months. Officials advise starting these upgrades soon since scheduling and installation may take time.
“As we move into the heating season, it’s a great time to explore your home’s energy use and determine what improvements can save you money and keep your home more comfortable this winter,” said CEO Executive Director Will Toor. “With a number of state, federal, local, and utility incentives available, the Colorado Energy Savings Navigator can help Coloradans find opportunities to save money on these improvements for their homes.”
On November 1, Xcel Energy customers will see new Time of Use (TOU) rates go into effect. Under TOU pricing, electricity costs vary depending on whether usage occurs during On-Peak or Off-Peak hours. Customers may choose between TOU or a flat rate by comparing data using Xcel Energy’s online comparison tool.
“Time of Use rates help to keep energy affordable and give consumers a way to lower their energy bill. Even small shifts, such as running a clothes dryer later in the evening, can make a difference,” said PUC Director Rebecca White. “And by shifting demand, we can avoid using more expensive energy sources in peak times and require utilities to build less generation overall—which lowers bills for all customers.”
For Xcel Energy customers:
– On-Peak periods are weekdays from 5 PM to 9 PM.
– Off-Peak periods include all other times plus weekends and holidays.
The goal is for prices at different times to better reflect actual system operating costs and encourage reduced usage during high-demand periods.
Resources such as the Colorado Energy Savings Navigator help determine eligibility for assistance programs like LEAP or Utility Bill Help Program as well as hundreds of available rebates. Emergency support is also available through organizations like Energy Outreach Colorado.
Additional details about Time of Use rates are provided by both the Public Utilities Commission and Xcel Energy.
