CenterPoint Energy Inc.
01/12/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/12/2026 10:50
As winter temperatures return, CenterPoint Energy encourages customers to utilize available payment assistance and resources as heating season continues
December 2025 brought top 10 coldest start on record, according to National Weather Service; Assistance programs, payment options and energy-saving resources available through online Resource Hub
2026-01-12T06:00:00Z
DAYTON - Jan. 12, 2026 - After a historically cold start to winter, CenterPoint Energy is encouraging Ohio customers to take time to review available assistance programs and energy-saving resources as colder temperatures are expected to return later this month.
December 2025 started with one of the top 10 coldest openings on record for the Dayton area, according to the National Weather Service in Wilmington. While early January has brought temporary relief with highs near 60°, forecasts indicate a return to seasonal temperatures by mid-January and continued fluctuations through February.
"December was one of the coldest on record, and during periods of extreme cold, customers may see an increase in their energy usage that is also reflected in their bills," said Mike Wilson, CenterPoint's VP, Ohio Gas. "With the potential for several more weeks of winter weather, we encourage customers to utilize available assistance and resources before the next stretch of cold weather."
Why weather matters
Energy usage increases when the gap between outdoor and indoor temperatures widens. For every 10-degree drop in outdoor temperature, home heating systems typically run 30-40% longer to maintain the same indoor comfort level.
During December's record cold, heating systems across the region worked significantly harder than usual. That increased usage will be reflected on January bills. With more winter ahead, customers who take steps now can manage costs through February.
Resource Hub: Tools and assistance in one place
CenterPoint's online Resource Hub brings together billing tools, assistance programs and energy-saving resources. Customers can:
- Apply for bill assistance through the Customer Assistance Fund (CAF)
- Find additional assistance programs like the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) for income-eligible households
- Sign up for Budget Billing to spread costs evenly across 12 months
- Set up a payment plan with flexible options to manage balances
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Compare monthly usage to see how weather impacts energy costs
Simple steps to help manage energy usage
There are many factors which contribute to a home's energy consumption, and customers can take several actions to help manage energy costs this winter, including:
- Lower your thermostat a few degrees at night or when away-this can reduce heating costs by up to 10%
- Check for drafts around windows and doors while temperatures are mild
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Replace furnace filters
Additional information can be found at CenterPointEnergy.com/ResourceHub.
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CenterPoint Energy and the Houston Critical Infrastructure Metal Theft Taskforce partner to combat copper theft and promote safety
HOUSTON - Jan. 9, 2026 - CenterPoint Energy participated in a critical infrastructure task force meeting alongside multiple local law enforcement agencies and representatives from regional communications providers to address copper theft affecting essential services across Greater Houston.
CenterPoint and public safety partners shared information, demonstrated materials and equipment, and outlined coordinated response efforts to prevent theft and protect the reliability of electricity and telecommunications systems. The session included hands-on learning for law enforcement officers, enabling them to examine a wide array of cables and components frequently targeted by thieves.
"Copper theft isn't just a property crime, it's a direct threat to public safety and the reliability of critical services," said Robert Carson with the Houston Police Metal Theft Unit. "By training law enforcement officers to recognize stolen materials and understand the impact of these thefts, we're strengthening our ability to protect communities and hold offenders accountable."
Copper theft can lead to service disruptions, safety hazards, and costly repairs, while exposing communities and responders to additional risk. Thursday's task force meeting included incident reporting, evidence collection and recovery, and hardening strategies in an effort to reduce theft and protect critical infrastructure.
"Protecting critical infrastructure is a team effort," said Jason Vaughn, CenterPoint Corporate Security Director. "We appreciate our partners in law enforcement and across the utility and communications sectors for coming together to prevent theft and keep essential services reliable for our customers."
CenterPoint encourages the public to help by reporting suspicious activity near electrical equipment, substations, or overhead lines. If you see something, say something. Call 911 for emergencies and your local non-emergency line for non-urgent concerns.
About CenterPoint Energy, Inc.
As the only investor owned electric and gas utility based in Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) is an energy delivery company with electric transmission and distribution, power generation and natural gas distribution operations that serve more than 7 million metered customers in Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio and Texas. As of September 30, 2025, the company owned approximately $45 billion in assets. With approximately 8,300 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.
CenterPoint Energy recognizes National Cut Your Energy Day by sharing tips to help customers save energy and money
HOUSTON - Jan. 9, 2026 - Tomorrow, Jan. 10, is National Cut Your Energy Costs Day, and CenterPoint Energy is reminding customers that the company offers tips, tools and programs to help increase the energy efficiency of their homes and save money on heating or cooling costs, no matter the season.
CenterPoint customers have benefited from significant savings by participating in energy efficiency programs, including installing more efficient appliances for heating, cooling and cooking and weatherproofing with air sealing and insulation. For customers who need additional assistance, CenterPoint offers payment arrangements and billing programs to meet customers' needs and budgets and can refer them to agencies that offer energy assistance to eligible households.
"At CenterPoint, we have tips, tools and programs to help you increase the energy efficiency of your home and save on heating or cooling costs. We know the colder temperatures can mean higher energy costs around this time of year, so National Cut Your Energy Costs Day serves as a great reminder that by taking some small and easy actions around the home, you can save energy and money while staying comfortable all year round," said Tony Gardner, CenterPoint Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer.
Energy-saving tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to use these easy tips to make a difference on monthly heating bills:
- Lowering the thermostat by 7-10 degrees at night, or when away for at least eight hours, can potentially save 10% on heating costs. Using a programmable thermostat to have the heating system work around your schedule.
- Changing or cleaning the furnace filter to maximize efficiency.
- Using window coverings and blinds effectively. If it's sunny outside, open window coverings, and close coverings at night to keep warmth inside. If the sun's not shining, keep window coverings closed.
- Sealing leaks with caulk or weather-stripping around doors, windows and other openings such as pipes or ducts. Close fireplace dampers when not in use to prevent heat loss.
-
Circulating warm air with ceiling fans by setting them to turn clockwise slowly to move warm air to living levels.
Winter Energy Guide
CenterPoint provides its Winter Energy Guide, an online resource featuring important safety, energy savings and bill management tips to help customers stay safe and warm. CenterPoint encourages customers to use this helpful resource to create their own cold weather plans so to stay prepared for the colder weather ahead.
About CenterPoint Energy, Inc.
As the only investor owned electric and gas utility based in Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) is an energy delivery company with electric transmission and distribution, power generation and natural gas distribution operations that serve more than 7 million metered customers in Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio and Texas. As of September 30, 2025, the company owned approximately $45 billion in assets. With approximately 8,300 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.
CenterPoint Energy recognizes National Cut Your Energy Day by sharing tips to help customers save energy and money
MINNEAPOLIS - Jan. 9, 2026 - Tomorrow, Jan. 10, is National Cut Your Energy Costs Day, and CenterPoint Energy is reminding customers that the company offers tips, tools and programs to help increase the energy efficiency of their homes and save money on heating or cooling costs, no matter the season.
CenterPoint customers have benefited from significant savings by participating in energy efficiency programs, including installing more efficient appliances for heating, cooling and cooking and weatherproofing with air sealing and insulation. For customers who need additional assistance, CenterPoint offers payment arrangements and billing programs to meet customers' needs and budgets and can refer them to agencies that offer energy assistance to eligible households.
"At CenterPoint, we have tips, tools and programs to help you increase the energy efficiency of your home and save on heating or cooling costs. We know the colder temperatures can mean higher energy costs around this time of year, so National Cut Your Energy Costs Day serves as a great reminder that by taking some small and easy actions around the home, you can save energy and money while staying comfortable all year round," said Tony Gardner, CenterPoint Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer.
Energy-saving tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to use these easy tips to make a difference on monthly heating bills:
- Lowering the thermostat by 7-10 degrees at night, or when away for at least eight hours, can potentially save 10% on heating costs. Using a programmable thermostat to have the heating system work around your schedule.
- Changing or cleaning the furnace filter to maximize efficiency.
- Using window coverings and blinds effectively. If it's sunny outside, open window coverings, and close coverings at night to keep warmth inside. If the sun's not shining, keep window coverings closed.
- Sealing leaks with caulk or weather-stripping around doors, windows and other openings such as pipes or ducts. Close fireplace dampers when not in use to prevent heat loss.
-
Circulating warm air with ceiling fans by setting them to turn clockwise slowly to move warm air to living levels.
Winter Energy Guide
CenterPoint provides its Winter Energy Guide, an online resource featuring important safety, energy savings and bill management tips to help customers stay safe and warm. CenterPoint encourages customers to use this helpful resource to create their own cold weather plans so to stay prepared for the colder weather ahead.
Payment assistance resources and support available for customers
CenterPoint is dedicated to supporting customers who may have difficulty paying their energy bill. Throughout the year, but especially in the winter months when home heating costs are historically higher, CenterPoint encourages those facing hardship to call the company now to find out about payment arrangements, energy efficiency programs and agency resources. To learn more, customers should call 800-245-2377 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday - Friday, or visit CenterPointEnergy.com/PaymentAssistance.
About CenterPoint Energy, Inc.
As the only investor owned electric and gas utility based in Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) is an energy delivery company with electric transmission and distribution, power generation and natural gas distribution operations that serve more than 7 million metered customers in Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio and Texas. As of September 30, 2025, the company owned approximately $45 billion in assets. With approximately 8,300 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.
2025 Year-End Review: CenterPoint Energy makes historic progress in strengthening resiliency and reliability for Greater Houston area customers
HOUSTON - Jan. 6, 2026 - Today, CenterPoint announced historic progress in 2025 to improve reliability and resiliency for its 2.9 million Greater Houston-area customers as part of its overall commitment to building the most resilient coastal grid in the country. Through its multi-phase Greater Houston Resiliency Initiative (GHRI), which includes a series of resiliency actions and infrastructure improvements designed to strengthen the grid, CenterPoint teams significantly improved overall reliability for customers in 2025, reducing customer outages by more than 100 million minutes compared to 2024.
Launched in August 2024, GHRI includes a series of critical systemwide upgrades and improvements, such as installing more storm-resilient poles, clearing more high-risk vegetation, targeted undergrounding of power lines and other critical resiliency actions. These actions are focused on strengthening the electric grid against more powerful storms and extreme weather, while also improving restoration efforts and emergency preparedness.
"While the hard work to improve reliability and resiliency for all our customers continues at a significant pace, real and historic progress was made in 2025 across the Greater Houston area. The series of actions taken by our 2,800-strong local workforce is delivering results, reducing the impact of outages and enabling us to restore power faster when outages occur. Looking ahead to 2026, all of our teams remain committed to building the most resilient coastal grid in the country and providing the energy future that our neighbors, friends and customers all across Houston expect and deserve," said Jason Wells, CenterPoint Energy President and CEO.
2025 GHRI Progress: Customer reliability benefits
As a result of CenterPoint's GHRI-related infrastructure investments, customers across the Greater Houston area experienced the following resiliency and reliability improvements in 2025:
- Reduced outage minutes: Achieved 100+ million fewer customer outage minutes; and
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Fewer vegetation-related outages: Experienced a 50% reduction in customer outage minutes related to trees and vegetation.
2025 GHRI Progress: Critical resiliency improvements
Building on the historic GHRI progress made in 2024, CenterPoint has completed the following actions throughout 2025 to improve systemwide resiliency and emergency preparedness:
- Stronger distribution poles: Installed 41,500+ stronger, more storm-resilient poles to better withstand extreme winds;
- Hazardous vegetation removal: Cleared 4,500+ miles of high-risk vegetation near power lines to reduce storm-related outages and improve reliability;
- Strategic undergrounding: Undergrounded 430+ miles of power lines to strengthen overall resiliency;
- Advanced weather monitoring: Installed 100+ weather stations to enhance situational awareness and storm preparation;
- Community Generator Donation Program: Donated and installed 20+ emergency backup generators at key locations across Greater Houston to improve local emergency preparedness and response efforts;
- Local emergency coordination: Held 14+ meetings and exercises with local officials and emergency response partners, including a full-scale hurricane exercise ahead of the 2025 hurricane season, and completed 19,000 hours of emergency training; and
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Leveraging key technologies: Established vital relationships with 7 leading technology vendors and hosted a historic Resiliency Technology Summit in June 2025 to showcase new tools and innovations to improve overall operations, situational awareness, storm preparedness and emergency response.
As 2026 begins, CenterPoint team members will build on the progress achieved in 2025 and complete additional resiliency actions across the Greater Houston area. These efforts will include prioritizing targeted, cost-effective GHRI-related improvements to deliver the greatest value for its customers and communities as CenterPoint teams continue working toward the larger goal of becoming the most resilient coastal grid in the country.
For more information about GHRI and CenterPoint's actions to strengthen the system on behalf of its customers, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/TakingAction.
About CenterPoint Energy, Inc.
As the only investor owned electric and gas utility based in Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) is an energy delivery company with electric transmission and distribution, power generation and natural gas distribution operations that serve more than 7 million metered customers in Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio and Texas. As of September 30, 2025, the company owned approximately $45 billion in assets. With approximately 8,300 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.
CenterPoint Energy statement on U.S. Department of Energy order and F.B. Culley 2 operations in southwestern Indiana
Company Statement
All of us at CenterPoint Energy will continue to work collaboratively with our federal, state and local partners and remain focused on prioritizing affordability and energy security so we can continue to deliver reliable electric service to our southwestern Indiana customers and their families. Based on the U.S. Department of Energy's recent federal order, the company will comply with the direction, and any subsequent orders, and CenterPoint's 90 MW Culley 2 generation unit will be extending its operations through March 23, 2026. Working together, we will help contribute to regional electric reliability efforts to focus on what is most important - safe and reliable service for our customers and fellow Hoosiers during the upcoming winter months.
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CenterPoint Energy Inc. published this content on January 12, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on January 12, 2026 at 16:50 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]