O&R Partners with Local Libraries to Help Homeowners Reduce Costs

In an ongoing effort to help customers save money on their energy bills, Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc. (O&R) has announced a new partnership with HomeBoost and the Ramapo Catskill Library System (RCLS) to help customers improve the energy efficiency of their homes.

O&R customers can now borrow a HomeBoost BoostBox, a do-it-yourself energy kit, from over 20 libraries throughout Rockland, Orange and Sullivan counties. The free kit includes a thermal camera that connects to a smartphone and instructions on how to set up an account through the HomeBoost app. 

Once downloaded, the app will give customers step-by-step instructions on how to use the camera to scan areas throughout their home, including doors, windows, and any other areas of concern. Customers are also encouraged to take photos of their thermostat, as well as the labels on their heating system and other major appliances.

Within days of completing and submitting an assessment through the app, customers will receive a free custom energy report via email, a $99 value, courtesy of O&R. The report will include do-it-yourself improvement suggestions, as well as steps to take advantage of various O&R energy efficiency programs, rebates, and incentives. Some suggestions could require a professional contractor. 

“By becoming more energy efficient, our customers gain the tools and insights they need to make informed decisions about their energy use, allowing them to take action and potentially reduce costs before they receive their utility bill,” said Janette Espino, O&R vice president of Customer Service. “Our Energy Efficiency team, who helped put more than $17 million back in our customers’ pockets last year, continues to find new, innovative ways to help them. The HomeBoost BoostBox is just another example of how we continue to collaborate with our communities and make energy bills more affordable for all our customers.”

“We’re excited to partner with O&R and local libraries to help consumers lower their monthly bills and be more comfortable in their homes,” said Selina Tobaccowala, CEO of HomeBoost. “After a guided scan, HomeBoost delivers a personalized energy assessment video that connects customers to local rebates, offers DIY guidance, and gives homeowners the information they need to confidently work with contractors.”

“This partnership reflects one more way libraries are supporting our communities,” said Grace Riario, executive director of the Ramapo Catskill Library System. “By offering access to HomeBoost kits through RCLS member libraries, we are helping families save energy, lower costs, and make informed choices for their homes.” 

To date, BoostBox users are finding clear opportunities to cut energy waste in their homes:

94 percent are advised to add weather stripping and caulking to windows and doors. 

92 percent are encouraged to consult a professional about improving air sealing and insulation. 

87 percent receive recommendations to install window treatments to reduce heat loss. 

To participate in this program, customers must have an active O&R account, a library card from the Ramapo Catskill Library System, and an iPhone or Android. HomeBoost kits are available on the shelves of the following RCLS libraries:

• Suffern Free Library 
• Blauvelt Free Library 
• Valley Cottage Library
• Pearl River Public Library 
• Nyack Library 
• Palisades Free Library
• Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library (HA1-Village Branch)
• Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library (HA2-Main Library)
• Nanuet Public Library
• New City Library
• Rose Memorial Library
• Finkelstein Memorial Library

If your local RCLS library is not listed, kits are available upon request and can be delivered to your selected branch for pickup.