HomeBoost energy assessment kits available at local libraries

GREENE COUNTY―Central Hudson Gas & Electric (Central Hudson) and the Mid-Hudson Library System (MHLS) have announced that the free, do-it-yourself home energy assessment initiative is growing, bringing increased access to Hudson Valley residents looking to lower energy use and reduce monthly costs.

Launched on August 1, 2025, HomeBoost gives Central Hudson customers the opportunity to borrow an energy assessment 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 receive a free, personalized digital report with tailored recommendations and information about available rebates to help improve efficiency and reduce monthly bills.

“We’re thrilled that our community is taking a strong interest in the HomeBoost program,” said Lauren Preston, Central Hudson’s chief customer services officer.

“In just six months, the HomeBoost program has continued to grow and now accounts for 10 percent of the energy assessments performed in our service area since launching. The early success has allowed us to expand access quickly—bringing this valuable energy-saving resource to even more communities throughout our service area,” Preston added.

Program Impact to Date:

Upon launch, the HomeBoost program distributed 24 kits across 10 library locations. Since then, demand has only grown, leading to the expansion of the program to 30 additional locations, including expanding into the Ramapo Catskill Library System (RCLS), with another 100 HomeBoost kits added to circulation in response to demand.

How It Works:

To participate, residents must have a library card from an MHLS or RCLS 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 for customers with a library card at the Cairo Public Library, Catskill Public Library, Palenville Branch of Catskill Public Library, Greenville Public Library, Heermance Memorial Library and Hunter Public Library. For a complete list of participating libraries, visit www.cenhud.com/en/my-energy/save-energy-money/home-energy-assessment-kit.