Natural Gas and Electricity News Archives

The hope is that the changes this initiative outlines will help educate companies and consumers alike to the growing need for clean energy. Such a process can be beneficial to everyone involved, and can help the economy as well. Recently, other states have become involved in the push for renewable energy— North Carolina now ranks as the number three state in the nation as far as the quantity of clean energy buildings is concerned, thanks to Food Lion LLC. How many other states will choose green energy in the months and years to come? 

For more information about the energy initiative for Texas, you can read the Cynthia & George Mitchell Foundation press release.

The recent relaunch of GreenEnergyChoice.com gives energy customers new options for purchasing renewable energy for their homes, powered by the clean and efficient Mother Nature. Wind, solar, water power and more help generate pollution-free energy for your home, with the added benefits of researching, comparing and ordering online to help you save time and money.

In addition to an easy and fast ordering process and competitive rates on green energy from leading energy providers, the Green Guide and Green Blog offer tons of tips and information on living green, what is green, global warming and more. For more information on greenifying your life, please go to GreenEnergyChoice today.

Exciting news in the world of Texas deregulated electricity providers in the WhiteFence network. We are enthused to announce another provider, Direct Energy, to the constantly growing electricity and natural gas services available at sites such as ElectricityTexas.com. Being the third largest competitive energy retailer in Texas, they are able to provide competitive rates and plans to millions of customers, with innovative products such as price protection that helps alleviate concerns over rising rates in peak seasons (summer and winter).

Along with powering your home with electricity, Direct Energy also takes initiatives in saving the planet by seeking out alternative energy sources and creating choices for their customers. The commitment they have taken to preserve our environment and lightening the load on your checkbook keeps them on pace in this world as a force in the Texas electricity market.

What is to be one of the largest wind farms constructed by AES Corp. in the U.S.—Abilene's Buffalo Gap 3 and its 524 megawatt capacity— will help Houston-based utility Direct Energy add 170 megawatts to its current wind portfolio. Operations are expected to begin in mid-2008 as part of the new seven-year deal between AES and Direct Energy.

"The Buffalo Gap 3 expansion will allow AES to continue developing renewable energy sources in West Texas, benefiting the local economy through the creation of new jobs and an increased tax base," said Ryan Pfaff, Managing Director, AES Wind Generation. "We are also pleased to further expand our relationship with Direct Energy, a world-class organization that shares our commitment to the West Texas wind market."

Direct Energy's total renewable energy purchases will increase to 813 megawatt with the new agreement—enough to power 200,000 Texas homes and offset nearly 2 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually.

The City of Phoenix, SRP (Salt River Project) and Arizona Public Service (APS), Arizona's largest electricity provider, recently implemented a program to offer residents energy efficient ENERGY STAR's qualified compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) in their homes.

Through APS' ENERGY STAR Lighting Program, more than three million bulbs have been sold, saving more than $90 million in energy costs and reducing carbon emissions by 675,000 tons. Through the APS Lighting Program, the discounted bulbs are available at more than 400 local retail locations statewide and at more than 50 Phoenix locations. With the APS discount, the bulbs are available for less than one dollar each. Recently, APS was named 2007 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency for its lighting program.

Tammy McLeod, APS general manager, Customer Service & Operations said, "Partnerships such as this have bottom line, immediate benefits for residents and the environment. We're proud to join our Phoenix partners to expand this effort. A little bulb really does make a big change. Today, APS is committing to offering discounts on an additional one million CFLs through the end of the year."

Please see the APS press release for more information

High temperatures have been forecasted this weekend for Chicago and Northern Illinois. To prepare for the heavy electricity demand, ComEd is taking additional measures to ensure service reliability.

Part of the preparation includes postponing scheduled work that would require equipment to be out of service and scheduling extra work crews, where appropriate, to handle any problems that may occur. They will also be putting work crews in the field to monitor the system and respond quickly to any problems.

ComEd says it will closely monitor its electric system throughout the weekend and remain in contact with area public officials should any potential problems arise.

To help customers stay comfortable, conserve energy and manage electricity bills during the weekend heat wave, ComEd also offers the following energy-saving steps that they say can save up to 15 percent on home energy costs:

• Keep thermostats at a constant, comfortable level (75 - 78 degrees) when at home. Lowering the thermostat setting below the desired temperature will not cool the home faster.
• To reduce heat and moisture during the warmest part of the day, run appliances such as ovens, washing machines, dryers and dishwashers in the early morning or evening hours when it's generally cooler outside. Also, use a microwave to cook, or barbecue outside, if possible.
• Keep shades, blinds and curtains closed. About 40 percent of unwanted heat comes through windows. Simply drawing blinds and curtains, which act as a layer of insulation, can reduce heat gain to your home. Awnings are even better, and can reduce heat gain by up to 75 percent. Window coatings and window film can reflect as much as 80 percent of direct rays from the sun.
• Turn off all unnecessary lighting and appliances, which add heat to the home.
• Keep doors to the outside, garage or attic firmly closed to keep cool air in and hot air out.
• Use fans to evenly distribute cool air and reduce the air conditioners "on" time.

For more energy-saving ideas, visit www.ComEdCARE.com.

Are you thinking about upgrading to a more energy-efficient home? Depending on what state you live in, finding one might be easier than ever before. In 2006, the percentage of newly constructed single family homes earning the government's ENERGY STAR for superior energy efficiency exceeded 12 percent in 15 states. The 15 leading states are: Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Iowa, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Texas, Utah and Vermont.

"Consumers don't have to limit their smart energy choices to energy-efficient cars and appliances," said Bob Meyers, EPA's principal deputy assistant administrator for Air & Radiation. "EPA is pleased to see builders in so many states leading the effort to offer their customers high-efficiency, low-emission choices in new homes."

The EPA says that nearly 200,000 new homes nationwide earned the ENERGY STAR in 2006, bringing the total number of ENERGY STAR qualified homes across the nation to almost 750,000. They also estimate that these homes have provided an annual savings of more than $180 million for homeowners by saving over 1 billion kWh of electricity and 100 million therms of natural gas.

To earn the ENERGY STAR, homes must be independently verified as meeting EPA's strict guidelines for energy efficiency. At least 15 percent more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code, ENERGY STAR homes include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20 to 30 percent more efficient than standard homes.

Home energy use accounts for nearly 17 percent of the total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions and 21 percent of energy consumption nationwide. In 2006, Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR, saved $14 billion and prevented greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 25 million vehicles.

To see if there are ENERGY STAR homes available near you, check out the ENERGY STAR Qualified New Homes Market Indices for States.

According to a recent survey released by 1E and the Alliance to Save Energy, nearly half of all corporate PCs in the United States are not regularly switched off at night. This means a conservative estimate of 31.2 million work PCs are being left on overnight; wasting energy, putting carbon emissions into the air, and costing US businesses $1.72 billion to supply power to machines that are not even in use.

All these PCs being left on overnight is also pumping 14.4 million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. According to recently released PC Energy Awareness report, preventing that amount of CO2 from reaching the atmosphere would have roughly the same impact as taking 2.58 million passenger cars entirely off the road—more cars than exist in the entire State of Maryland (2.48 million cars).

The recent report combines statistics on energy usage and CO2 emissions, alongside research on behavior in the American workplace—such as whether employees are turning their PCs off at the end of the day (why or why not).

1E, a provider of power management software, and the Alliance to Save Energy, a coalition of businesses, government, environmental and consumer leaders who promote the efficient and clean use of energy around the world, commissioned the survey with market research firm Harris Interactive, to examine PC power usage in the American workplace.

For more information, check out the 1E Energy Awareness Campaign Web site.

As temperatures in Illinois continue to climb, ComEd is reminding customers to apply for help with summer electric bills through ComEd's $64 million Rate Relief and Assistance Initiative. ComEd says it has already granted more than $15.4 million in bill credits to about 350,000 customers, and nearly $30 million remains available to eligible customers this year.

The company says rate relief grants, credits and other programs are available now to customers most in need. For most programs, customers with incomes up to 200 percent of the poverty level, or $40,000 for a family of four, qualify. In addition, a residential special hardship fund is open to families with incomes up to 400 percent of the poverty level, or $80,000 for a family of four. Enrollment is now open, and ComEd is encouraging all customers who think that they may be eligible to apply.

ComEd also is increasing its work crews in the field today to monitor the system and respond quickly to any problems. ComEd says it cannot promise there will never be outages, but is committed to reducing their number and duration by responding quickly to any service interruptions that may occur. If customers experience an outage or have any questions about their ComEd service, they are urged to call 1-800-EDISON-1 (1-800-334-7661).

ComEd is also offering energy saving tips to help customers reduce their energy use and lower their bills:

• While at home, keep the thermostat at a constant, comfortable level (a suggested 75 to 78 degrees). Lowering the thermostat below the desired temperature will not cool the home faster.
• Run appliances such as ovens, washing machines, dryers and dishwashers in the early morning or evening hours when it's cooler.
• Keep shades, blinds and curtains closed. About 40 percent of unwanted heat comes through windows. Blinds and curtains act as a layer of insulation that helps keep the home cool.
• Keep doors to the outside, garage or attic firmly closed to keep cool air in and hot air out.
• Use fans to evenly distribute cool air and reduce air conditioners "on" time.
• Place window air conditioning units on the north or shady side of the home to avoid overworking the unit in the hot daytime sun.

For more energy-saving ideas, or for more details on ComEd's Rate Relief and Assistance Initiative, visit www.ComEdCARE.com, or call 888-806-CARE (2273).

Duke Energy Ohio recently announced it will file an application with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio seeking an increase of $34 million, or 5.8 percent overall, in natural gas rates. The increase would be effective in the early- to mid-2008 and is the first general rate filing since 2001.

Duke Energy Ohio says it has invested more than $460 million to expand its natural gas delivery system to meet customer growth and make other safety, reliability and efficiency improvements. In addition to that investment, the company says it has also experienced increases in operating costs for delivery service consistent with inflation, creating the need for a rate increase.

"We have made significant investments in our natural gas system to meet customer growth and improve safety and reliability," said Sandra Meyer, president of Duke Energy Ohio. "These investments have enhanced service and reduced maintenance expenses, helping to minimize the requested increase."

The company is seeking to implement the increase for residential customers over a three-year period to gradually establish rates for all customers that reflect the actual cost of providing service. The actual amount of the bill will depend on the cost of natural gas at the time the increases take effect and the level of increase authorized by PUCO. Natural gas costs are billed to customers at the company's cost or at the customer's agreed upon price with an alternative supplier, in either case without profit to Duke Energy Ohio.

Duke Energy Ohio is planning to increase its funding for low-income weatherization by 50 percent to assist customers in managing their energy usage.

For more on the rate increase, see the Duke Energy Ohio press release.

Having a hard time convincing your kids to adopt good energy-saving habits? If you could use a little help, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Disney recently announced that they are cooperating in a nationwide campaign to promote energy efficiency through a TV spot based on the upcoming film Disney*Pixar film Ratatouille. Energy advice from a rat that cooks? It just might work!

"Combining the energy expertise of the Department of Energy with the promotional ingenuity of Disney is a unique way to raise energy awareness," said DOE Secretary Samuel W. Bodman. "I hope this will be the first project in a continuing effort to leverage the resources of the entertainment industry and government to encourage smart energy choices."

Featuring the Ratatouille characters Remy, Emile and Skinner, the 30-second animated spot encourages viewers to switch from incandescent light bulbs to EnergyStar® compact fluorescent lighting (CFL) and points them to the energy.gov website for more tips on saving energy or using renewable energy technologies in the home.

Beginning June 15, the spot will air on cable networks nationwide, with a particular emphasis in northern portions of Virginia as well as in northern and southern California, and will continue through the summer. While the spot points out that energy can be used in a variety of ways, it emphasizes that it can be used more efficiently by employing technologies such as CFLs.

To view the spot and get tips on saving energy visit www.eere.energy.gov/consumer.

ComEd officials recently announced that the company has informed the Chicago City Council Committee on Environmental Protection, Energy and Public Utilities at its annual summer readiness briefing that the company is well positioned to meet summer electricity demand.

ComEd President J. Barry Mitchell confirmed ComEd has sufficient resources in place to meet customer demand and fulfill its 15 percent reserve margin requirement under the PJM Regional Transmission Organization, which manages the electricity grid in all or parts of 13 states and the District of Columbia. Mitchell expects peak demand for electricity this summer could reach 23,525 megawatts (MW), less than last summer's all-time record of 23,613 MW set Aug. 1, 2006. One MW powers approximately 300 homes equipped with air conditioning and modern appliances.

"ComEd is prepared both in terms of energy supply and system reliability," Mitchell said. "Our system performed outstanding during last year's record period, and we are poised as always to meet customer needs—even on the hottest days."

ComEd says it is continuing to invest in its infrastructure to enhance reliability and meet growing customer demand. The company says that since 2000, it has invested about $4.7 billion to enhance its electric distribution system throughout the northern Illinois service territory—with $264.4 million invested in 2006.

"We performed 107 summer critical projects in Chicago to bolster reliability and system capacity ahead of the coming summer," Mitchell said. "In addition to installing new distribution lines and extending existing lines, we conducted numerous drills and carried out preventive and corrective maintenance to prepare our personnel and equipment for the coming summer."

For more information on ComEd's plans for the summer season, check out the press release.

AT&T Inc. recently announced the successful implementation of a voice solution for NSTAR, a Massachusetts-based electricity and natural gas utility, to manage incoming customer service calls. Under a $3 million four-year contract, AT&T will provide NSTAR with AT&T VoiceTone®, a natural-language solution that responds to customers' precise needs.

AT&T says VoiceTone is designed to enhance the customer-calling experience by replacing time-consuming menus and touch-tone prompts with conversational interactions. Customers ask questions, make requests and receive accurate, natural-voice responses. The system closely resembles a live agent with its ability to quickly understand callers' specific needs and to direct them to the correct customer service representative.

"Providing our customers with support that is easily accessible, accurate and efficient is extremely important to us," said Gene Zimon, NSTAR's Chief Information Officer. "AT&T's VoiceTone is an innovative solution that not only enables us to better serve and build stronger relationships with our customers but also creates cost-reducing efficiencies throughout our customer service department."

AT&T VoiceTone also creates efficiencies within NSTAR's customer service centers. The system increases the likelihood that callers are directed to the correct service department or self-service option on the first connect, reducing the amount of time spent with each customer without compromising service. In addition, AT&T VoiceTone increases NSTAR's call capacity and allows more customer needs to be answered during peak calling times without increasing the number of representatives.

Fore more information, check out the AT&T press release.

Electricity capacity is expected to be able to ensure reliable electric service throughout North America this summer, under normal summer weather conditions, according to Rick Sergel, president and CEO of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC). However, widespread and sustained hot and humid weather could threaten that reliability. NERC will release this and other conclusions in its 2007 Summer Assessment.

"The numbers tell us we will be OK, but the weather has been challenging in recent years. If areas of North America experience extended periods of extreme weather this summer, utilities may need to implement emergency procedures to reduce customer demand," said Rick Sergel, president and CEO of NERC.

In summer 2006, when extreme weather was experienced across much of North America, some utilities issued emergency alerts and public appeals, implemented voltage reductions, and exercised contracts with customers that allowed them to interrupt electricity supply in return for lower rates. All these actions helped keep supply and demand in balance and maintained the reliability of the bulk power system.

Extreme weather can impact the electricity grid in numerous ways. Higher demand for electricity, mainly from air-conditioning, stresses the electricity supply and delivery system. Generating units cannot be cooled as easily so their output has to be reduced to maintain appropriate operating temperatures. The amount of electricity flowing over transmission lines must be limited during extreme heat to prevent excessive line sagging and damage.

Several issues highlighted in NERC's Long-term Reliability Assessment issued in October 2006 are being addressed. The amount of demand represented by customer Interruptible Demand and Direct Control Load Management programs increased since last year by more than 10 percent in Florida, 13 percent in other parts of the southeastern United States, and almost 20 percent in the western United States and Canada. Many regions are studying the interdependence of fuel delivery and reliability, and improving coordination between fuel suppliers and generators.

For more information, see the NERC Web site.

This summer the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority's (NYSERDA) BE COOL campaign is making it easier for New Yorkers to save energy. Single- and multi-family residential customers of Con Edison electric service in New York City and Westchester County who turn in an old, working room air conditioner and purchase a new ENERGY STAR qualified model can earn a financial reward. Those turning in a window-based room air conditioning unit may earn $35 for each unit and those turning in a through-the-wall air conditioning unit may earn $100 for each unit when they purchase a new ENERGY STAR model.

Residents just need to bring their old unit to an authorized drop off site or retailer location, where the units will be properly recycled and residents will receive a mail-in application for the incentive. Managers of multi-family buildings may contact NYSERDA directly to complete a change-out of all the units in their building.

The savings to New York City residents go far beyond the initial incentive. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average family spends $1,900 a year on energy bills, nearly half of which goes to cooling and heating. Additionally, ENERGY STAR qualified room air conditioners use 10 to 25 percent less energy than a conventional new model or up to 40 percent less energy than a 10-year-old unit. Additionally, ENERGY STAR qualified room air conditioners often include timers or programmable thermostats for better temperature control, allowing residents to use the minimum amount of energy needed to cool a room, and to cool the room only when it's really needed.

"NYSERDA's BE COOL campaign represents a huge opportunity for New Yorkers to reduce both their energy use and carbon dioxide emissions, as well as save money," said Peter R. Smith, president and CEO of NYSERDA. With just a few simple changes, New Yorkers can use their air conditioners without wasting energy. It's really the way to 'be cool' this summer."

"Con Edison customers can keep cool this summer and help reduce pollutants by properly recycling their old air conditioners and buying ENERGY STAR qualified air conditioners," said Rebecca Craft, director of energy efficiency programs for Con Edison. "ENERGY STAR qualified appliances use energy efficiently and the BE COOL reward is an added incentive."

New Yorkers who are not eligible for the incentive can still save energy during the summer by using timers on air conditioners and lights; closing shades or curtains on windows that receive direct afternoon sun; using ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) instead of wasteful, heat- generating incandescent bulbs; and always looking for the ENERGY STAR when purchasing appliances and air conditioning products. Also, by shifting energy-intensive tasks such as dishwashing and clothes washing to cooler early morning or late night hours, New Yorkers can help reduce mid-afternoon heat build-up and make sure there is enough electricity for everyone during the hottest part of the day.

The message is hip, but the results are serious. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), if one out of 10 families in the United States used cooling and heating equipment that has earned the ENERGY STAR, the change would keep more than 17 billion pounds of pollution out of the air. Additionally, properly sizing new units, recycling old ones and taking simple steps to be more energy efficient at home increases the savings.

"The New York Power Authority's energy efficiency programs, on behalf of its public sector partners, have contributed to significant energy savings across the state. Working with NYSERDA, New York City and Con Edison to provide consumers with the tools to save energy in the home will have a positive effect this summer," said Timothy S. Carey, president and CEO of the New York Power Authority.

NYSERDA is also coordinating with New York City's plaNYC effort to make New York City more sustainable and plan for the year 2030.

"I urge all New Yorkers to take advantage of these programs to make saving energy even more cost-effective," said Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg. "By taking these easy steps in their homes, New Yorkers can lower electricity bills, help prevent blackouts, and help prevent climate change. Helping consumers save energy is a key component of our plaNYC effort to build a greener, greater New York, and we are proud to be working with NYSERDA on this program."

Visit www.GetEnergySmart.org or call 1-877-NY-SMART (1-877-697-6278) for more information about BE COOL and other summer energy saving tips.

PECO has joined an award-winning coalition of electric utilities and educators from 18 states committed to promoting electrical safety among children, consumers and contractors. The coalition has grown from its founding in early 2001 to include more than 200 members.

Accidents and fires involving electricity result in more than a thousand deaths and tens of thousands of injuries each year. Prevention of electricity-related tragedies is the goal of during this National Electrical Safety Month and PECO's safety outreach efforts all year-round.

John Boyle, PECO's safety manager, said protecting company employees is a top priority everyday, and PECO wants to share its information and resources with the public in hopes of preventing hazardous situations.

"We must have a healthy respect for electricity, and we are pleased to bring the valuable resources of Safe Electricity to our customers. Information and awareness create life-saving attitudes and actions,' said Boyle. "Our employees take responsibility each day for their own safety, working around electricity and natural gas. We hope this message during National Electrical Safety Month extends to families and contractors so they will take a more active role in staying safe."

Indoors, Boyle encourages every household to have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in any room where appliances can be used near water, such as the kitchen, bathroom, laundry room and basement. Additionally, he advises, do not overload electrical outlets or extension cords, especially in home offices or entertainment areas, label the circuit breaker box or fuse box for easy reference when problems occur, use plastic caps on unused electrical outlets if there are young children at home, and be sure all electrical cords are in good condition.

Outdoors, stay away from a fallen power line; always stay at least 10 feet away from power lines when climbing or pruning a tree, painting, or working on the roof; never touch anything electrical when wet or standing in water; and always call 8-1-1 prior to digging so underground utilities are not hit during landscaping or other activities around the house.

For more electrical safety information, or information about the Safe Electricity program, visit www.SafeElectricty.org.

At a press conference last week on the National Mall, the Common Ground Alliance (CGA) joined with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters, the Federal Communications Commission, and representatives from national launch partners the Associated General Contractors of America, John Deere, The Travelers Companies, Inc., and Cox Communications, to ceremonially connect 811, the new national 'Call Before You Dig' number.

"Now that there is a single number to call, any time, there's no excuse for putting lives at risk by striking a utility line," said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary E. Peters. "If 911 is the number you call to report emergencies, 811 is the number to call to prevent them."

The 811 number was designated by the FCC in 2005 at the direction of an Act of Congress in 2002. Its creation was supported by more than fifteen industry stakeholder groups who encouraged its development and creation and now promote its use nationwide.

To ensure that all Americans know and use 811, today's event on "America's Front Yard" also kicked off a national public education campaign, which will use an educational Web site, television and radio PSAs, industry and consumer outreach, and local events to raise awareness of the new number and demonstrate its relevance to consumers and professionals who conduct digging activities. Additionally, the campaign's national launch partners and promotional sponsors will promote the new number through a variety of tactics designed to leverage the grassroots power of their customers, clients and members, creating awareness and positive behavioral change among those most likely to dig.

"Knowing the approximate locations of where utility lines are buried before each digging project helps protect America's pipelines, industry and people," said CGA President Bob Kipp. "We believe the new 811 number will encourage more people to have their lines marked to protect themselves, their neighbors and their community."

Nationwide, risky assumptions about the location of underground utility lines, which are buried at various depths below the ground, lead to more than one unintentional hit per minute every day, every year. Even simple digging jobs can damage utility lines and disrupt vital services to an entire neighborhood, harm those who dig, and result in expensive fines and repair costs.

For more information about the 811 service, campaign, and a new national survey on consumer digging habits, visit www.call811.com.

The Home Depot® recently expanded its long-term commitment to the environment and sustainability by launching its Eco Options^SM program in the United States. Eco Options is a classification that allows customers to easily identify products that have less of an impact on the environment and empowers them to help make a difference in their own homes.

The Home Depot has identified more than 2,500 Eco Options products, including all-natural insect repellents, cellulose insulation, front-load washing machines, organic plant food and vegetables in biodegradable pots. The wide array of Eco Options also includes compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs, programmable thermostats and certified wood.

As The Home Depot works with vendors and independent experts, the Eco Options line will be continuously expanded to include scores of innovative products that reduce the impact on the environment.

As part of its Eco Options launch, The Home Depot gave away 1 million CFL bulbs at its stores on Earth Day, April 22, and launched an interactive Web site dedicated to the program. The CFL bulb has become an icon of energy efficiency, and replacing 1 million incandescent bulbs with CFLs will result in savings of $12 million in annual energy costs and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by at least 147 million pounds. The Home Depot also sold more than 50 million CFL bulbs in 2006.

"For more than a decade, The Home Depot has been a proponent of environmental sustainability. From our wood purchasing policy to having our first store certified as green by the U.S. Green Building Council, we are committed to helping improve the environment and lessen our impact on it," said Frank Blake, chairman and CEO of The Home Depot. "Eco Options is the next step in expanding our commitment and making sure we help our customers who want to make a difference themselves."

Products with the Eco Options label are either eco friendly by definition, such as solar lights that use natural power, or have met certain environmental performance criteria verified by Scientific Certification Systems, an independent standards development and certification company. Eco Options products fall into one of five categories: clean air, water conservation, energy efficiency, healthy home and sustainable forestry.

The first Eco Options displays are rolling out now in The Home Depot stores across the country. The launch will capitalize on the growing trend of consumers embracing environmentalism and seeking ways to protect the environment.

The Company also is working to reduce its own impact on the environment. To save energy in its stores, The Home Depot has begun the process of replacing the incandescent bulbs in its Lighting department displays with CFL bulbs. The bulb replacement is under way at 200 The Home Depot stores and will be expanded to others throughout the year.

For more information on the Eco Options program, check out The Home Depot press release.

Miss your chance to deduct energy-efficient home improvements from your 2006 tax return? H&R Block has some tips on how to start preparing now to get the most out of your return in 2007.

The company says that taking pre-emptive steps can mean the difference between being tripped up by taxes or saving big bucks come 2008, but phasing in money-saving strategies at the right time is as important as any one move a taxpayer may be mulling.

"People tend to tune out taxes until late in the year," said H&R Block Advice Delivery Manager Maggie Doedtman. "At that point, it's almost too late. If taxpayers didn't like their bottom line this year, it's time to see if there's anything they can do to get a better result next tax season."

For instance, taxpayers who adjust their withholding now will realize benefits for two-thirds of the year, compared to those who don't make the adjustment until late in 2007—when many Americans start thinking about their next tax return.

So if you are planning to make energy-efficiency improvements on your home to save money on your energy bills, H&R Block says it can pay to be green if you get started now. A one-time, $500 credit for energy-efficient home improvements, such as replacing doors, windows and insulation, expires at the end of 2007. The amount covers improvements made in 2006 and 2007, and the value of the credit can be lumped together if you didn't claim the benefit this tax season.

If you want more tax tips, check out H&R Block Offers Six Early Tips To Limit Tax Pinch in 2008.

MastioGale recently announced that PG&E has been ranked number one in the western region and second in North America in their annual study that measures customer value of gas pipelines in the United States and Canada.

"PG&E is honored to be recognized as one of the nation's most customer friendly natural gas pipeline operators," said Bob Howard, PG&E's vice president of gas transmission and distribution. "It's a testament to the dedication of the 20,000 men and women of PG&E, who are focused on delivering better, faster and more cost-effective service to our customers."

MastioGale's annual study evaluated 53 natural gas pipelines in the United States and Canada, with the results determined through a detailed survey of their customers. The survey includes 24 different attributes that assess customer service levels and perceived customer value, and is designed to advance pipeline operators' understanding of the national market conditions.

PG&E delivers natural gas to approximately 4.2 million customer accounts in northern and central California. The utility's service area stretches from Eureka in the north to Bakersfield in the south, and from the Pacific Ocean in the west to the Sierra Nevada in the east. PG&E has nearly 7,000 miles of natural gas transmission pipelines and more than 41,000 miles of gas distribution lines.

For more information, check out the PG&E press release.

ComEd recently announced that it has received the Peak Load Management Alliance's Outstanding Achievement in Demand Response award today for its portfolio of energy reduction programs designed for residential, commercial and industrial customers.

The PLMA, an association of leading energy organizations dedicated to developing and promoting consumer participation in power reduction programs, presented the award to ComEd executives at the group's annual awards ceremony earlier this month in Toronto, Ontario.

"We are very pleased to have received the PLMA's recognition for our customer participation energy reduction efforts," said Sharon Hillman, ComEd vice president of resource adequacy and environmental programs. "ComEd has taken an active approach regarding the development of its demand response programs, which have been one of the strongest in the nation for nearly three decades."

Demand response programs are a critical component to ensure the reliability of the regional electrical distribution network and reduce the need to add additional generation load during periods of peak customer demand.

Under ComEd's demand response programs in 2006, more than 61,000 residential, commercial and industrial participants reduced their electric load during times of peak power demand by up to 1,295 megawatts, which represents about 5.5 percent of ComEd's total peak distribution load of 23,613 MW. In one program for example, residential customers participating in the company's Nature First initiative can receive up to a $40 seasonal bill credit for allowing ComEd to cycle off their central air conditioning unit for brief periods