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December 2025 on record as fifth coldest in the southwest Indiana region history, according to National Weather Service 

 Assistance programs, payment options and energy-saving resources available through online Resource Hub 

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Jan. 12, 2026 – After a historically cold start to winter, CenterPoint Energy is encouraging southwestern Indiana 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 opened with the region’s fifth coldest two-week period on record, according to the National Weather Service. While early January has brought temporary relief with highs near 60 degrees, 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 Roeder, President of CenterPoint Energy Indiana. “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 

·         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 

·         Replace furnace filters  

Additional information can be found at CenterPointEnergy.com/ResourceHub. 

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 12, 2026) – A bill authored by State Rep. Tim O’Brien (R-Evansville) that would classify emergency medical services as essential under Indiana law recently passed out of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee.

O’Brien said House Bill 1251 passed the committee unanimously, receiving bipartisan support.

HB 1215 formally recognizes EMS as an essential public service, like police and fire departments. O’Brien said during a committee hearing that this classification makes a clear and important statement— ambulance services are not optional or secondary, but a critical public safety mechanism.

“By formally recognizing EMS as an essential service, we are giving communities the tools they need to better support first responders, strengthen response times and ensure Hoosiers can count on help when it matters most,” O’Brien said. “I am thrilled to see so many in support of making this change and creating a more reliable emergency response system for all Hoosiers.”

O’Brien said his bill would also have county commissioners identify underserved areas and contract with providers to establish EMS services.

O’Brien authored a law in 2024 to have the Indiana Department of Homeland Security conduct a comprehensive overview of EMS services across the state. The report found significant gaps in EMS staffing levels across districts, notable variation in basic and advanced life support services across counties, including no coverage in some townships, and difficulty recruiting and retaining EMS workers in certain areas.