The EnergyWise Older Adults Program is a partnership between Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) and Minnesota Energy Resources that helps income-eligible homeowners age 60 and older make energy efficiency improvements to their homes. Services may include weatherization and energy-efficient equipment upgrades that can enhance comfort, improve health and safety, support independent living, and help reduce energy costs.
EnergyWise Older Adults Program Frequently Asked Questions
For complete eligibility requirements and terms and conditions, please refer to the EnergyWise Older Adults Program Application.
What is the EnergyWise Older Adults Program?
How old do I need to be to participate?
If you are 60 years of age or older, you may qualify for the program.
Are there income requirements I need to meet?
Yes. Your annual household income must fall below either the Primary Qualifier of 80% Area Median Income (AMI) or the Secondary Qualifier of 50% State Median Income (SMI) or qualify through the Energy Assistance Program (EAP). See the EnergyWise Older Adults Program Application for the current income guidelines.
Do I need to provide proof of income?
Yes. You will need to provide one of the following:
- Copy of last year’s tax return (preferred). First two pages required.
- Previous three months of pay stubs. For bi-weekly pay periods, please provide seven pay-stubs.
- Unemployment statement and verification of unemployment statement.
- Proof of Energy Assistance Program (EAP) payments, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) acceptance notification.
- Social Security Administration Benefit Award or Verification Letter.
You are not eligible for this program. You must own a single-family home, townhome, or twinhome and do not plan not to move within the next six months or have your name on a housing waiting list. If you are a renter, we encourage you to apply for the 4U2 Program.
If I live in a mobile or manufactured home, do I qualify?
No. Mobile and manufactured homes are not eligible for this program. We encourage you to contact Minnesota’s Weatherization Assistance Program to learn about available services. For more information, visit mn.gov/commerce/consumers/consumer-assistance/weatherization/.
No. You are not eligible if you have received WAP services within the past 15 years. In addition, if you were deferred from WAP because of health or safety concerns, you are not eligible for this program.
What if I already have a Minnesota Energy Resources ServiceChoice plan?
You may still apply for the EnergyWise Older Adults Program. ServiceChoice is a separate appliance repair and service protection program. If you think you may qualify for the EnergyWise Older Adults Program, apply for this program first before using ServiceChoice for work that may be eligible. The EnergyWise Older Adults Program may provide qualifying energy efficiency improvements and equipment upgrades at little or no cost*, which may make it a better option for your household. Franklin Energy, the program administrator, will determine your eligibility and the improvements available through the program.
How do I know if I qualify for the program?
Complete the EnergyWise Older Adults Program Application and mail or email it to the address provided on the second page of the application. Franklin Energy, the program administrator, will determine your eligibility based on your income documentation and other program requirements.
Do I need an energy audit to receive program services?
Yes. A free home energy audit is required to identify cost-effective energy efficiency improvements and weatherization opportunities that can make your home more comfortable and energy efficient.
Do I have to pay for the energy audit?
No. The home energy audit is provided at no cost to customers who qualify for the program.
*Who pays for the installation costs?
RPU and Minnesota Energy Resources cover the cost of eligible improvements. However, if natural gas-related health and safety upgrades (such as dryer vent, bathroom vent, or air duct repairs) exceed $500, a $150 charge will be applied to your Minnesota Energy Resources natural gas bill
May I choose who performs the energy audit?
No. RPU and Minnesota Energy Resources have contracted with Franklin Energy to perform all energy audits to ensure consistent auditing practices, program standards, and proper measurement and verification of energy savings.
No. Energy efficiency improvements installed through the EnergyWise Older Adults Program are not eligible for additional rebates from RPU or Minnesota Energy Resources.
Are funds always available for the program?
No. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis while funding is available. If program funds are exhausted, your application may be placed on a waiting list for the following year.