Registration Opens for UI’s Annual Home Energy Challenge

In recognition of Energy Awareness Month, families in UI's service area are invited to participate in at-home contest that illustrates tools to keep a home energy efficient

ORANGE, Conn. - October 1, 2025 - In recognition of the start of Energy Awareness Month, United Illuminating (UI), a subsidiary of Avangrid, Inc. and proud sponsor of Energize Connecticut℠ (EnergizeCT), announced today that registration is now open for the Annual Home Energy Challenge. Students in kindergarten through 12th grade and their families are invited to participate in the fun and friendly competition to demonstrate the value of insulation in improving a home's energy efficiency.

"At UI, we believe that education and engagement are key to building a more energy-efficient future and we are proud to support initiatives that foster energy awareness within our community," said Frank Reynolds, President and CEO of UI. "The Home Energy Challenge is a fun and impactful way to promote energy efficiency and spark curiosity in young minds. It's not just about science - it's about building awareness and responsibility that students can carry into their homes and communities."

The UI Home Energy Challenge and accompanying lessons give students a chance to explore how insulation impacts energy use in the home. Through hands-on learning, data collection, and analysis, students will see how energy efficiency starts with simple smart choices.

"This annual challenge is a great opportunity for children and their families to become more aware of their energy usage in their home and gain a hands-on understanding of how insulation plays a vital role in energy efficiency," said Marissa Westbrook, Senior Manager of Delivery CLM at UI. "We believe in empowering students with the knowledge and tools to make smarter energy choices. By engaging them early, we're helping shape a more sustainable and energy-conscious future for our communities."

After registering, participants will receive a tool kit provided by UI including the materials needed to conduct the challenges - program guide, thermometers, rubber bands, cups, and a draft detective set. Winning submissions will receive a $350, $200, or $100 Amazon gift card. Submissions are due by October 30, 2025. The UI Home Energy Challenge is open to all families with kindergarten through 12th grade students in towns served by UI. A list of eligible communities can be found here.

The UI Home Energy Challenge is an initiative of EnergizeCT, which is a joint effort by Eversource and Avangrid, Inc. subsidiaries UI, Connecticut Natural (CNG), and Southern Connecticut Gas (SCG), as well as the Connecticut Green Bank, to improve the energy efficiency of homes and businesses throughout the state. All EnergizeCT initiatives, including the UI Home Energy Challenge, are paid for through a charge on customer bills.

For more information and to register, please visit https://www.homeenergychallengeui.com.

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