INDIANA — Indiana residents looking to lower their utility costs while supporting a more resilient power grid can now sign up for CenterPoint Energy’s Smart Cycle program.
The voluntary demand-response program is entering its 2026 season this March, offering homeowners a way to earn significant bill credits in exchange for small, temporary adjustments to their air conditioning usage during peak summer demand.
Participants in the program agree to let CenterPoint make brief, limited adjustments to their smart thermostats, typically by no more than four degrees, during the hottest days of the summer. These events occur when the electricity grid is under the most strain.
Participants always retain final say. If a temperature adjustment is inconvenient, homeowners can override the change at any time through their thermostat or mobile app.
In some instances, the system may “pre-cool” the home by lowering the temperature by three degrees before an event begins, ensuring maximum comfort during the adjustment period.
CenterPoint has increased the financial incentives for the 2026 season to encourage wider participation. According to the utility, enrolled customers can earn:
- $75 One-Time Enrollment Credit: Provided to new participants after successful registration.
- $7.50 Monthly Participation Credit: Applied to the bill for each enrolled device from March through November.
- Total Savings: A single-device household can earn up to $142.50 in total credits during their first year of enrollment.
The Smart Cycle program is just one component of CenterPoint’s 2026 energy efficiency portfolio. The company is currently promoting several other resources for Indiana customers:
- Online Energy Efficiency Store: Customers can access instant rebates on ENERGY STAR® certified appliances, LED lighting, and weatherization kits. Currently, through late February, residents can claim up to four free window insulation kits.
- Smart Thermostat Rebates: For those who do not yet own a smart thermostat, CenterPoint offers a $50 rebate on qualifying models, or even a free ecobee thermostat for certain qualifying enrollers.
- No-Cost Home Energy Assessments: A technician will visit your home to identify energy leaks and provide on-the-spot upgrades like pipe insulation, aerators, and weatherstripping.
- Income-Qualified Assistance: The Neighborhood Weatherization Program provides more extensive upgrades, such as furnace tune-ups and attic insulation, at no cost to eligible households.
“When customers participate, they’re earning real savings on their bills and helping reduce strain on the electric grid during peak summer demand,” said Mike Roeder, President of CenterPoint Energy Indiana.
To check eligibility or sign up for the 2026 season, customers can visit CenterPointEnergy.com/SmartCycle or call an efficiency advisor at 866-240-8476.
