Governor Rendell Proclaims Oct. 30 as 'Weatherization Day'

HARRISBURG – Citing the importance of being more energy efficient, Governor Edward G. Rendell has declared Oct. 30 as “Weatherization Day” in Pennsylvania.

“With winter on our doorstep and energy costs still rising, it’s important to remember that our state’s weatherization program can help by showing people how to properly insulate their homes, repair or replace their inefficient or unsafe heating systems, and other techniques to help them lower their utility costs,” the Governor said. “Pennsylvanians can also get help paying their heating bills through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP.

“Weatherization and LIHEAP have helped thousands of our most vulnerable citizens and they will continue to do so, but we can do more,” the Governor said. “My Energy Independence Strategy keeps more money in Pennsylvanians’ pockets, while reducing our reliance on foreign, costly, and environmentally harmful energy sources.’

The initiative calls for the creation of an $850 million Energy Independence Fund, which would support clean energy by providing rebates to install more energy efficient appliances; give financial assistance to alternative energy companies in Pennsylvania; and support the development of specific energy economic development projects.

“The Energy Independence Strategy will create 13,000 new jobs, attract $3.5 billion in new investment to the commonwealth and cut down on pollution,” Governor Rendell said. “It goes a long way in making Pennsylvania more economically and environmentally sound for generations to come.

“Rising fuel and heating oil costs as well as national concerns over security and the environment mean energy conservation is an issue that can no longer be ignored. We should be thinking of preserving energy year round, not just on Weatherization Day,” the Governor said. “I encourage all Pennsylvanians to take advantage of the resources the commonwealth has available to help pay their utility bills this winter and to learn how to make the state more energy efficient.”

To learn more about LIHEAP and weatherization programs, log onto http://www.staywarmpa.com/. More information on the Energy Independence Strategy is available by visiting http://www.newpa.com/ or by calling 1-866-466-3972.