How NEAN came to be...

Energy prices can be unpredictable, severely affecting the safety and stability of thousands of families across the State of Nebraska.

• Federal funding (LIHEAP) to help low income families and individuals has been declining in recent years.
• Nebraska utilities support and promote the efforts of the LIHEAP program. Several utilities also sponsor financial assistance programs funded by generous donations from their customers to help those who do not qualify for LIHEAP dollars.
• However, these programs and other charitable programs do not have sufficient financial resources to meet the increased need. Nebraska Energy Assistance Network (NEAN), a partnership of utilities, governmental agencies, regulators and community leaders came together to address these issues. Their focus is to bring additional attention and support for increased charitable giving and the need that exists within the State of Nebraska.

In the fall of 2005, discussions were initiated about increasing awareness of energy assistance programs and conducting fundraising and awareness campaigns. These discussions resulted in the partnership of utilities and human service agencies which conducted six public forums at area senior citizen centers; and

• Whereas follow-up discussions among participants revealed the desire to formalize discussions into a Committee formation;
• Whereas additional utilities, human service agencies and governmental entities indicated an interest in participating;

Therefore, the Nebraska Energy Assistance Network was created. Its mission is:

To assist Nebraskans with their energy needs
through education, advocacy and partnerships.