Residential Energy Resources

Focus on Energy

Focus on Energy provides free energy efficiency equipment packages, education, services, and rebates to qualifying residents and businesses in Wisconsin. Residents should consider an energy assessment to identify high-savings investments and explore which expenses may qualify for a Focus on Energy rebate or Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit.

Portage County Public Library

The Portage County Public library has valuable resources for residents seeking to learn more about their energy use and energy programs available to them, including energy efficiency and renewable energy books and magazines available for checkout at all Portage County Public Library locations.

Weatherization Program

The CAP Services Weatherization Program weatherizes income-qualified homes identified by the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP). WHEAP provides CAP with a referral list of qualified homes for eventual follow-up to determine owner/tenant interest in participating in the program. Energy savings are achieved by installing attic, wall, crawl space, water heater and hot water pipe insulation; sealing air leaks into the home; and, installing low-flow shower heads, faucet aerators and energy-efficient light bulbs in every home. Based upon the projected energy savings, furnaces, refrigerators, and freezers may also be replaced.

For additional information, contact: Deb Johnson, Housing Program Technician, 715-343-7145, djohnson@capmail.org

Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit

Beginning January 1, 2023, the federal Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit has changed to increase the total annual credit for certain qualified expenditures. Residents should work with their tax preparation services to ensure full utilization of this credit when filing their annual taxes. 

Watts Up? Meter

watts up meterThe Watts Up? Meter, available for checkout at all Portage County Public Library locations, is an electricity meter that can measure home appliance electricity use and average monthly cost to run the appliance. This provides you with the necessary information to make the decision to upgrade appliances, make behavior changes, and take other actions to reduce energy use and costs in the home.

Home Energy Efficiency Workshop Videos

A series of energy efficiency workshop videos are available for checkout at the Charles M. White Public Library in Stevens Point. These videos provide information about available Focus on Energy programs, home building and renovation techniques for energy efficiency, and renewable energy options for homes. The video titles are also available to watch here:

United Way's 2-1-1

2-1-1 Wisconsin is a simple way to connect people in need with human services. By dialing 2-1-1, you can be linked to information about local resources. Some of the energy resources 2-1-1 will link you with are: Focus on Energy's Targeted Home Performance with Energy Star; Rural Development's Home Repair Loan and Grant Program; CAP Services Weatherization Program; and utility bill assistance programs.

Useful Websites

U.S. EPA & DOE – Energy Star
This site hosts information about the Federal ENERGY STAR program, products, and labels. There are also tools, resources, and links to information about energy efficiency in new and existing homes.

Midwest Renewable Energy Association
The Midwest Renewable Energy Association is a non-profit organization that promotes renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable living through education and demonstration. This site hosts a list of available trainings, events, and educational resources.

WPS Can Help with Energy Bills

If you're concerned about keeping up with energy bills, a call to Wisconsin Public Service can be the answer. Working with WPS upfront can prevent you from falling behind. WPS can help you with billing plans, assistance programs, special payment arrangements and more.

Additionally, you are encouraged to apply for financial assistance. WPS can provide information on energy assistance programs that will pay a portion of your winter heating costs if you qualify. Call 24-Hour Customer Service at 800-450-7260.