As continuous high temperatures and humidity drive up energy use, Mississippi Power is reminding customers that rebates and discounts are available focusing on ways to keep their homes cool and reduce the impact of the hot weather on power bills.

“Mississippi Power encourages our customers to use energy wisely to get the most out of their energy dollar, especially during the summer months,” said Nicole Faulk, Customer Services Organization vice president.

As part of an ongoing effort to help customers save energy and money, the company has made it easy to find energy solutions and expertise at www.mississippipower.com/waystosave. There are also tips and advice throughout the summer on Facebook, Twitter, and by using the hashtags #HotWeatherTip and #SaveEnergy.

In addition to many free tips, Mississippi Power offers rebates and discounts through a number of energy efficiency programs. Approved by the Public Service Commission in 2014, the programs are available to help customers afford energy efficiency assessments and improvements to their homes and businesses.

Three of the eight programs that are available this summer include:

* The Home Energy Checkup Program increases energy awareness by offering $75 in savings on an in-home assessment for residential customers. The program assists homeowners achieve savings by consulting with a participating contractor who analyzes their energy use, identify energy efficiency improvement projects and install low-cost, energy-saving measures in their residence. The program also provides incentives for installing insulation (attic, floor or wall) and sealing, as well as mail-in rebates for a programmable thermostat, room air conditioner, heat pump, water heater or pool pump.

* The Neighborhood Efficiency Program is an extension and enhancement of the pilot program launched in September 2013 to educate and promote energy efficiency to income-qualified customers. Mississippi Power will conduct more than 1,000 energy audits this year in neighborhoods throughout the service territory that have been identified with input from community organizations. The program includes an in-home audit as well as a box of 10 CFLs, and if customers qualify, additional energy-saving measures (such as efficient lighting and insulation upgrades) are available at no cost to the customer.

* The Behavioral Analysis Program delivers customized energy reports to residential households that provide customers with information on their energy use. The program encourages customers to use less energy to save money on their monthly bills, by providing energy-saving tips they can implement at home.

The Large Commercial & Industrial Business Program, Small Business Program and Heating & Air Program have all been fully subscribed for 2015.

Anh Tuấn