Georgia Power’s no-cost home upgrades may lower seniors’ bills, though leaks and mold can stop repairs

Renters can apply, but any improvement work must have the landlord’s written approval.

Eligible older homeowners in Georgia may be able to receive free home upgrades through Georgia Power that can reduce electricity costs by cutting energy waste.

What to know

To qualify for EASE for Seniors, applicants must be Georgia Power customers who are 60 or older, own and live in the home, and have a household income at or below twice the federal poverty guideline amount, according to Low Income Relief.

A free in-home energy assessment determines which improvements may help a household.

Based on the assessment, approved contractors may repair heating and cooling equipment, seal ducts and other air leaks, or add attic insulation. Low Income Relief also says smart thermostats and water-saving devices may be included, depending on the home’s needs.

Households do not pay for approved work. The assessment and program rules determine what is provided, and replacing doors or windows is not included in EASE for Seniors.

Background

Older homes often have higher power bills because cooled air escapes in warm weather or heated air leaks out during colder months. Insulation and air sealing can reduce those losses, but certain problems in the home can delay the work.

Unresolved gas leaks or unsafe wiring can stop the project, as can roof leaks and signs of moisture or mold. Georgia Power requires those issues to be fixed first. Homeowners who are unsure about their property’s condition can review the program’s eligibility rules before applying.

Renters also have another option through Georgia Power’s standard EASE program.

That program is available to income-qualified customers of any age and uses a higher income limit of three times the federal poverty guideline amount. Renters may apply, but the landlord must give written permission for improvements.

How to apply

Georgia Power’s official EASE for Seniors page includes an income chart to help homeowners check eligibility, and it is also where applications begin.

Applicants must provide the requested information and proof of income. After approval, an assessor schedules a free home visit.

A program contractor then completes the qualifying upgrades identified in the assessment. Final approval depends on the household meeting the program requirements, the condition of the property, and the assessment results.

Renters can find application details for the regular EASE program through the utility’s income-qualified assistance portal.

Another possible option is HopeWorks, a Georgia nonprofit that runs a separate aid program for eligible homeowners who are at least 65.

Low Income Relief cites an Atlanta BeltLine resource listing for HopeWorks that says assistance may cover replacement of a gas furnace or water heater. Homeowners should contact HopeWorks directly to confirm availability and review its separate eligibility rules.

Depending on the situation, acceptable proof of income for EASE for Seniors may include a SNAP award letter, paycheck stubs, pension records, or documentation of disability or Social Security benefits.

Where to learn more

For homeowners looking to reduce electricity bills, repairs may need to come before efficiency upgrades. These stories cover water-damaged duct insulation, free efficiency improvements, and help with utility bills.

• A Georgia plumber found soaked duct insulation in a grandmother’s home and issued a carbon monoxide warning.
• Low-income homeowners in Florida can apply for up to $100,000 in repair aid, though only 50 applicants will be chosen.
• Households in Virginia can get free HVAC and insulation work, along with bill assistance before winter.
• Utility assistance in Illinois opens with bill relief, discounts, and furnace repairs.
• APS and SRP customers in Arizona can seek up to $640 in utility bill help.