Costello Raises Awareness for Illinois Energy Now Program

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[State Rep. Jerry Costello II (D-Smithton) is urging local governments, libraries, park districts and schools to apply for the Illinois Energy Now program, which provides rebates for energy efficiency improvements to electric and natural gas equipment.

"In this tough economy, I know local governments are working hard to make cuts and operate within their means," Costello said. "Many needed infrastructure improvements have been dismissed due to budget constraints, but the Illinois Energy Now Program reimburses the costs, allowing local governments to move forward with these projects. Additionally, money will be saved for years to come by increasing energy efficiency and reducing utility costs."

As part of the rate relief package enacted in 2007, the state's major utility companies are required to fund Illinois Energy Now, allowing eligible organizations to save money through potential reimbursement for up to 75 percent of energy improvement costs and reduced costs of future utility bills. To qualify, a public facility must be located within Ameren Illinois and ComEd electrical service areas or Ameren Illinois, Nicor, North Shore or Peoples natural gas areas. Examples of eligible entities include: municipalities, townships, and county facilities; library and park districts, public safety and water reclamation districts; and public schools, community colleges and public universities.

"Public facilities should take this opportunity to seek out ways to use this money and initiate plans to improve infrastructure," Costello said. "There are millions of dollars in rebates available and there is no deadline for applying."

For more information, visit www.ilenergynow.org or contact Rep. Costello's constituent service office at 618-443-5757.