Snowe Suggests Helpful Home Heating Resources in Anticipation of Higher Heating Costs this Winter

WASHINGTON, DC – October 21, 2010 – (RealEstateRama) — Senator Olympia J. Snowe (R-Maine) is reminding Mainers of home heating assistance programs and resources available in anticipation of higher heating costs during the cold winter months. “Increased heating expenses could exacerbate the economic storm weathered by families and businesses throughout Maine this year, and it is crucial that Mainers move forward with energy efficiency improvements,” said Senator Snowe, citing the recently released October 2010 Short-Term Energy Outlook by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), which estimated households heating primarily with heating oil will spend an average of about $220 (12 percent) more this winter.

Senator Snowe, who recently applauded the release of $1,376,054 in emergency contingency funding for Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to help eligible low-income homeowners and renters meet their home energy needs, encouraged homeowners to contact their regional program agents for additional information. “It is critical to know the helpful resources available, including tax credits and financial assistance, to help hard-working families and seniors to improve the energy efficiency of their homes during the cold winter months ahead,” said Senator Snowe. “In addition to local CAP agencies, my staff and I look forward to helping our families identify and navigate the assistance that might be available to them.”

A longtime advocate of energy efficiency, Senator Snowe prioritized energy efficiency in the America Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which included $5 billion for the Weatherization Assistance Program – $41.9 million was directed to the State of Maine. It is expected that the funding will weatherize more than 4,400 homes in the State. In addition, Senator Snowe is the author of the residential energy efficiency tax credits, which allow homeowners to deduct 30 percent of the cost of energy efficient windows, doors, insulation, and efficient heating systems.

For details on federal energy efficiency tax credits, visit www.energystar.gov. Additionally, information regarding state rebates for energy efficiency can be found at http://www.efficiencymaine.com/.

Aroostook County Action Program, serving Aroostook County
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Penquis Community Action Program, serving Penobscot, Piscataquis and Knox Counties
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Peoples Regional Opportunity Program, serving Cumberland County
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Waldo Community Action Partners, serving Waldo County
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Washington-Hancock Community Agency, serving Washington, Hancock Counties
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Western Maine Community Action, serving Franklin County
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York County Community Action Corp., serving York County
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