Energy programs & tips for renters
Whether you rent an apartment, house or condo, PSE has programs to help you pay utility bills, become more energy-efficient and support renewable energy.
Many PSE programs work for renters, not just homeowners. From bill assistance and energy savings to community solar shares, learn about the programs that work with your rental space.
PSE’s renter-friendly programs
PSE Flex
A flexible way to earn money from your energy use
Enable small adjustments to your energy use during peak demand times called “Flex events”, with multiple ways to participate based on your rental situation and lifestyle.
Popular Flex options for renters:
- Flex Rewards - Earn money based on how much electricity you save during Flex events. Get $25 for enrolling!.
- Flex Smart - If your landlord provides access to a Wi-Fi enabled smart thermostat, you can let PSE automatically adjust it by a few degrees during Flex events. Get up to $50 per device for enrolling!
- Flex EV - If you live in a single-family rental and charge your electric vehicle at home, you can earn money for adjusting your charging during Flex events. Get $50 just for enrolling!
Online energy usage tools
Free online energy assessment
PSE offers a quick and convenient 3-step process to help you understand and control your home's energy usage. Get personalized insights and suggested ways to save.
How it works:
- Complete a 5-7 minute online assessment
- Review personalized energy-saving recommendations
- Track your progress with usage graphs in your myPSE account
Renewable energy programs
Support clean energy without installation
Replace your energy use with local renewable energy delivered to PSE’s grid and system. No contracts or installation required.
Community Solar
Get local renewable energy without installing solar panels. Subscribe for $20 per share and receive money back on your bill.
Green Power
Match up to 100% of your electricity use with renewable energy like wind and solar, starting at just $4 per month.
Renewable Natural Gas
Replace your conventional natural gas with renewable natural gas from local organic waste matter. Starts at $5 per month.
Bill assistance programs
Need help with your energy bills?
If you're struggling with your bill, these programs can make a real difference (note: applicant must be the primary account holder or a co-customer).
What's available:
- Bill Discount Rate - Ongoing help on your energy bill with discounts of 5-45%
- PSE HELP – A grant applied once per program year
- Past Due Bill Forgiveness - Can help erase past due balances
- LIHEAP – Federally funded payment assistance
- Home Weatherization Assistance – Free home upgrades to those that qualify
- Additional financial assistance – If you’re not eligible for payment assistance, we have other options to help you lower your energy bills.
Energy efficiency tips for renters
Save energy, shrink your bill
Whether you rent a house or an apartment, there are a variety of no- or low-cost actions you can take to reduce energy consumption in your home. Always obtain permission from your landlord before making any changes to your home.
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Heating and cooling
- Create a warm room. When possible, only heat the room(s) you spend the most time in.
- Talk to your landlord about having your heating system inspected by a professional to ensure it's operating efficiently and safely.
- Install a programmable thermostat. Talk to your landlord about installing a programmable or smart thermostat—PSE offers a $75 rebate on qualified models.
- Pay attention to moisture levels. On dry, sunny days, turn off the heat and open windows to dry problem areas in homes with high humidity.
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Lights and appliances
- Replace incandescent lighting with LED bulbs, particularly in areas you use most. LED bulbs use at least 80% less energy while lasting 13-25 years longer than incandescent bulbs. You can find energy-efficient LED bulbs at major retailers or the PSE Online Marketplace.
- Choose the right bulb for each room. If you have dimmable fixtures, be sure the LED bulb is compatible and has dimming capabilities.
- Use your dryer efficiently. If your dryer has a moisture sensor or auto shut-off feature, use it. Clean the lint filter every time you use it.
- Check refrigerator efficiency. Listen to see if the motor runs constantly—you may need repair service. Another cause may be a leaky door gasket.
- Cook smart. Match pots and pans to the right sized burner. Use a microwave or toaster oven rather than your stove to heat food whenever possible.
- See PSE’s appliance rebates for opportunities to save money when it’s time to make upgrades in your home.
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Plumbing and water heating
- Set your water heater to 120°F or the low setting to save money and reduce risk of scalding.
- Report leaks immediately. If your water heater is leaking, call your landlord right away (PSE offers rebates on energy-efficient water heating).
- Fix faucet leaks. Check hot water faucets and shower valves for leaks. Replace washers or repair valves if you find leaks.
- Install efficient fixtures. Add energy-efficient showerheads and faucet aerators.
Programs for landlords
If you own or manage rental properties, PSE offers programs to help you upgrade your buildings with energy-efficient improvements, EV charging, and solar power—often at low to no cost.
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Upgrade your properties with PSE’s support
- Multifamily Retrofit: Get rebates and grants for energy-efficient upgrades in condos, townhomes and managed properties. We offer up to 90% coverage for lighting upgrades, hundreds in savings on heat pumps, up to $35 per square foot for new windows and more.
- Up & Go Electric for Multifamily: Install EV chargers for tenants at low to no cost. PSE covers up to 100% of installation and maintenance costs (up to $10,000 per charging port) for qualifying customers to help you attract residents and meet sustainability goals.
- Multi-Occupant Solar: Generate your own power and share the savings with your tenants. Install a solar system on your building and distribute financial credits directly to tenants' utility bills, while reducing overhead. Enhanced incentives up to $250,000 are available for affordable housing providers and Tribal entities.
Have questions about PSE's renter-friendly programs and how to get started? Energy Advisors are here to help.
Call us at 1-800-562-1482 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Do you rent a home in Tacoma?
Income-qualified renters in Tacoma can get major energy efficiency improvements to their rented house or apartment at no cost. Tell your landlord about this program!