A city program that helps residents lower energy costs and navigate an often complicated array of rebates, loans and efficiency programs will continue with support from a second Mass Save grant.
Worcester has been awarded a 2025-2027 Mass Save Community First Partnership grant, one of 58 awarded statewide by Mass Save sponsors National Grid and Eversource, the city announced Thursday.
The grant continues funding Worcester’s Smart Energy Advice program, a free service run through the Department of Sustainability and Resilience that connects residents, landlords, small businesses and nonprofits with energy-efficiency programs and financial assistance.
Since its launch in 2023, the program’s Energy Advocate has worked with more than 1,000 people and helped more than 450 low- and moderate-income households make improvements aimed at increasing the efficiency, comfort and health of their homes, according to the city’s announcement.
“We’re excited to keep this program going, especially with energy costs so high these past few years,” Chief Sustainability Officer John Odell said in the release. “Whether you’re a homeowner trying to make your house more efficient, someone who needs help paying your bill, or a small business owner looking for ways to cut costs and improve your bottom line, it’s a great place to turn to for help or advice.”
The program is designed in part to serve as a guide through the assortment of energy programs and incentives available to consumers. Worcester residents can get help scheduling a Mass Save home energy assessment, identifying potential upgrades and applying for rebates, incentives and the program’s zero-interest HEAT Loan.
The Energy Advocate can also help residents understand their utility bills and options for electricity suppliers, income-based discount rates and payment plans. Assistance is available for people considering rooftop or community solar or heat pumps, including guidance on getting started and working with contractors.
Residents can also be connected with other local programs and organizations, including the Worcester Community Action Council, Worcester Community Housing Resources and the Worcester Lead Abatement Program.
The service is available to homeowners and renters as well as landlords, small businesses and nonprofits, including people who speak languages other than English. Assistance is available by phone, email and in person, and the Energy Advocate also participates in community events.
The continuation of the program comes as Worcester residents have become eligible for additional energy-efficiency incentives.
Worcester became a Mass Save Designated Equity Community in 2025, a designation intended to expand access to energy-efficiency programs in communities that have historically faced barriers to participating in them.
According to the city’s announcement, Worcester residents may now qualify for incentives that include full coverage of insulation and air sealing costs, free or discounted heat pump upgrades and zero-interest financing for certain projects. Eligibility and the amount of assistance available depend on income and other program requirements.
Mass Save also offers separate programs for larger buildings, commercial projects, new construction, electric vehicles and appliances.
The city plans to mail letters explaining Smart Energy Advice to property owners in the coming months.
Residents can make a free appointment with Worcester’s Energy Advocate by calling 508-456-5752 or emailing energyadvice@worcesterma.gov. More information is available through the city’s Smart Energy Advice program and Mass Save’s Community First program.
