Currents

An Energy Newsletter for Local Governments

Resources in Brief

California Energy Commission's (CEC) Energy Efficiency Financing Program provides financing for schools, hospitals and local governments through low-interest loans for feasibility studies and installation of energy-saving measures. CEC has announced the availability of up to $40 million in loan funds for these projects, up from $5 million announced in February. The interest rate is a fixed 4.5% for the term of the loan, and loans can be available within four to six weeks of receiving an application. For more information and a copy of the application click the title link or contact the CEC Public Programs Office at (916) 654-4147 or by e-mail at pubprog@energy.state.ca.us.

The California Independent System Operator (Cal-ISO), the entity that manages the flow of power along California's grid, has created some new web tools for keeping consumers informed of power conditions and actions they can take to maintain energy reliability. Cal-ISO's "Today's Outlook" webpage now includes a statewide "conserve-o-meter"– an easy-to-read gauge that pinpoints how much conservation is needed at different times during the day – and a graph showing the available electric resources, expected peak usage, and actual usage as the day progresses. Visit: http://www.caiso.com/outlook/SystemStatus.html.

Keep an ear and eye out for Flex Your Power's summer energy awareness advertisements on TV, radio and in newspapers. The ads remind Californians that by purchasing energy-efficient appliances, fans and lighting we can all save energy, save money and help protect the environment. The ads also remind Californians of the three important energy-saving actions to take when they hear a Flex Your Power NOW! Alert:

• turn off unneeded lights, computers and appliances;
• set thermostat to 78? F when you're home and 85° F or off when you're away; and
• use major appliances after 7 p.m.

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