NORWICH – A new New York State-funded energy efficiency program is making its presence known in Chenango County, reaching out to residents, small businesses and local non-profit agencies that are hoping to lower their energy bills while at the same time, touting jobs in green energy efficiency.

The Green Jobs Green New York (GJGNY) Program has been advocating for energy efficency in different regions across the state since its inception in the beginning of the year. As a division of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the program is geared toward promoting energy efficiency and the installation of clean technologies to reduce energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, it helps homeowners access a free assessment by an accredited contractor and finance their home improvements with available grants or low-interest loans, depending on income and financial status.

“The winter season will soon be here and for most people, heat bills will go sky high,” said GJGNY Southern Tier Regional Outreach Coordinator Euphemia Martin. “This program will help lower their utility bills, keep their homes warmer and put money back in their pockets.”