With Oncor’s multi-million-dollar energy efficiency program, Texans can save two ways: First with incentives that lower the cost of new energy-saving systems or equipment, and second through lower energy bills.

In 2019, the incentive programs with a budget of over $42.6 million helped nearly 52,500 Oncor customers upgrade equipment and reduce energy usage at their homes and businesses.

Every year, Oncor launches its Take A Load Off, Texas energy efficiency programs with a budget allocation approved by the Public Utility Commission of Texas. Homeowners, businesses and public entities can use those budget dollars to install solar panels, put in high-efficiency HVAC systems, weatherize structures, upgrade lighting or participate in a load management program.

“In 2019, we had a challenging but successful year,” said Garry Jones, Director, Energy Efficiency. “Three of our programs – multifamily HVAC, retail products and load management -- performed incredibly well and delivered extraordinary savings to our customers.”

“This year has had an impressive start,” Jones said. “In the first six weeks of its opening, the solar program is completely subscribed, and the commercial and residential programs are seeing an influx of projects. We are expecting to experience another positive year.”

Oncor estimates that participating customers will save 243 million kilowatt-hours of energy in a year with the 2019 efficiency upgrades. That’s enough energy to power over 17,200 average Texas households for a year, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Last year, Oncor selected 41 projects for the incentive funds in its Multifamily HVAC program. The projects represented over 4,200 apartment units in 18 cities across north Texas – from Big Spring in west Texas to Palestine in east Texas.

At the Brownstone Village apartments in Irving, Texas, owner Matthew Haines used the Oncor program in 2019 to replace the heating and cooling equipment in 40 of the community’s 83 units.

“We are probably the only property in the area that has heat pumps now instead of regular air conditioning units,” Haines said. “It’s a win for everyone involved. It’s a win for us, the residents, Oncor and the environment.”

Starting April 15, Oncor plans to increase the rebate on two popular smart thermostat brands, Nest and ecobee, from $50 to $75 and expand the program to stores in south central and east Texas.

“We’re encouraging Oncor’s customers to visit the Take A Load Off, Texas website to learn about our programs, what we have to offer and how to participate,” Jones said.