Central Hudson and Mid-Hudson Libraries Partner to Help Customers Take Control of Energy Costs

Hudson Valley residents now have a powerful new way to manage energy costs – at no cost to them. Central Hudson Gas & Electric, in partnership with the Mid-Hudson Library System (MHLS), is making it easier than ever for customers to take control of their home energy use with the launch of HomeBoost, a free do-it-yourself energy assessment tool.

For a limited time beginning August 1, Central Hudson customers can borrow a HomeBoost kit from participating MHLS libraries. Each kit includes a smartphone-compatible thermal imaging camera and step-by-step instructions to help users identify areas in their homes where energy efficiency can be improved. Within days of completing the assessment, customers will receive a free personalized report via email that highlights available rebates and provides recommendations to improve efficiency and reduce monthly bills.

“Energy efficiency is one of the most effective ways to lower household costs,” said Lauren Preston, Central Hudson’s Customer Services Officer. “By partnering with the Mid-Hudson Library System, we’re able to get this valuable tool into the hands of as many customers as possible – at no cost – so they can learn where energy could be saved, as well as get support and ideas on how to improve their home . Customers can then use the advice to explore energy efficiency programs and rebate programs offered for their area and start saving right away.”

“Helping residents save money is something our libraries do every day,” said Rebekkah Smith Aldrich, Executive Director of the Mid-Hudson Library System. “This new partnership with Central Hudson helps us fulfill our vision for a world in which communities thrive when they have access to information, resources, learning environments and library services that respect the triple bottom line of social equity, economic feasibility, and environmental stewardship. This is a practical, easy-to-use program that will help any homeowner.”

How It Works

To participate, residents must have a library card from a participating MHLS member library and be an active Central Hudson customer. HomeBoost kits are compatible with both iPhone and Android devices. For the most accurate results, users should have basic home details available, such as the year their home was built, square footage, type of heating system, and window style.

Participating Libraries

HomeBoost kits are available at the following libraries only:

• Town of Esopus Library
• Kingston Library
• Poughkeepsie Public Libraries (Adriance Memorial and Boardman Road Branch)
• Red Hook Public Library
• Woodstock Library
• Julia L. Butterfield Library (Putnam)
• Catskill Public Library
• Howland Public Library (Beacon)
• Elting Memorial Library (New Paltz)

Free Weatherization Kit Included

While supplies last, customers who complete the DIY assessment will also receive a free weatherization kit to help get a head start on improving their home’s efficiency. Each kit includes:

• Two cans of spray foam
• Door sweeps
• Five outlet gaskets
• Five switch gaskets
• One tube of caulk

These simple tools can help seal up drafts, improve comfort, and lower energy bills – especially during peak heating and cooling seasons.

Building a More Energy-Efficient Community

This initiative marks the second collaboration between Central Hudson and MHLS, following the launch of the MHLS Road Trip program in June 2025. Together, the organizations are working to promote energy efficiency, beneficial electrification, weatherization, electric vehicles, community solar, and sustainability across the region.

Central Hudson has also launched a Community Partner Resource page, where libraries and other organizations can access free resources to help spread the word about clean energy and customer assistance programs.

To learn more, find a participating library, or get started, visit www.cenhud.com/HomeBoost.

About the Mid-Hudson Library System (MHLS):

The Mid-Hudson Library System (MHLS) is a cooperative public library system chartered by the New York State Board of Regents and overseen by the New York State Education Department via the Division of Library Development (DLD). MHLS is dedicated to working together with sixty-six (66) member libraries in the Mid-Hudson region to strengthen local library services while saving local tax dollars. MHLS provides essential resources to member libraries and multiplies the funds that enable local libraries to continue serving patrons, keeping our communities strong, connected, and thriving well into the future.

For more information, visit www.midhudson.org or follow the library system on Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky.