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LIHEAP Network Newsletter, November 2006
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 2, 2006
CONTACT
Jeanne Atkinson, Health and Human Services System, 402.471.8287
New Nebraska Energy Assistance Network to Hold Forums to Help Nebraskans Use Energy Wisely
A statewide coalition has formed to help Nebraskans meet their basic energy needs. The Nebraska Energy Assistance Network (NEAN) is a statewide coalition of utilities, governmental agencies and community organizations.
In its first public outreach, NEAN will sponsor 21 forums during October and November on energy conservation methods.
“Nebraskans who are interested in saving money on their utility bills should consider attending one of these sessions,” Gov. Dave Heineman said. “This is a new and valuable opportunity for education and outreach, and I am pleased that the partnership has chosen to tackle this important issue. High energy costs are something that touch each and every Nebraskan.”
Local Senior Centers will host the forums, which will focus on helping customers understand and manage their energy costs, encouraging them to reduce energy bills by using energy wisely, and informing them of resources available within their communities.
Meeting participants will get practical tips on how to use less energy in their home by using efficient lighting, sealing around windows and doors, maintaining their heating and cooling system, minimizing water usage, and weatherization. NEAN will also provide information about financial and material resources to help them meet their needs.
The demand for energy is greater than ever, and many Nebraskans are having a hard time paying for their energy bills, according to NEAN. The partnership of public and private entities also plans to create a clearinghouse of resources for financial assistance and energy conservation expertise in the state. More information about NEAN will be available in October at www.nebraskaenergyassistance.com
NEAN founding members and advisory members are listed below:
General Members:
- American Red Cross Heartland Chapter, Joe (Jono) Anzalone
- Omaha Public Power District, Judi Martin
- Aquila, Inc, Jan Davis
- The Salvation Army, Jeff Wibel
- Dawson Public Power District, Gwen Kautz
- Kinder Morgan, Char Reiman
- Loup Power District, Rick Cheloha
- Nebraska Public Power District, Cory Fuehrer
- Northwestern Energy, Linda Eidem
Advisory Members:
- Nebraska Health & Human Services, Mike Kelly
- Nebraska Public Service Commission, Laura Demman
- Nebraska Energy Office, Pete Davis