“Simple Steps” Pilot Program Aimed at Improving Energy Efficiency

Jackson, Miss. – Educating customers about energy use and giving them tools to become more energy efficient are goals of “Simple Steps,” a pilot program being rolled out today by Entergy Mississippi, Inc.

“Simple Steps” includes a general program for residential and small-business customers and a low-income program for customers in Jackson, Greenville and McComb. A separate energy-efficiency program aimed at middle-school students will also be introduced.

“We want to show that using energy more wisely is easy, economical and very affordable,” said Gloria Johnson, director of customer service for Entergy Mississippi, Inc. “We’re going a step further by not only giving customers energy-saving tips, but arming them with weatherization kits that can improve the energy efficiency of their homes and businesses.”

To participate, customers must complete a home or small-business energy assessment online and a short pop-up survey at entergy-mississippi.com. They will then be mailed weatherization kits while supplies last. These contain items that can be easily applied for small-scale efficiency improvements, such as caulk, vinyl door sweeps, air filter whistles and compact florescent light bulbs.

Low-income customers who are eligible for Power to Care or LIHEAP assistance can also get weatherization kits at Salvation Army sites in Greenville, Jackson and McComb.

These customers can perform self-audits using the Salvation Army’s computer labs and submit printed receipts showing proof of completion. After verifying receipts, Salvation Army workers will give customers free weatherization kits while supplies last.

“These kits will give our customers hands-on experience with basic, affordable energy efficiency items that are available at many major retail stores,” Johnson said. “After using the kits, they’ll know exactly what to shop for in the future to continue their energy efficiency efforts.”

Entergy Mississippi will conduct follow-up surveys in early 2010 and report results to the Mississippi Public Service Commission.

Entergy Mississippi, Inc. provides electricity to more than 433,000 customers in 45 counties. It is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation. Entergy Corporation is an integrated energy company engaged primarily in electric power production and retail distribution operations. Entergy owns and operates power plants with approximately 30,000 megawatts of electric generating capacity, and it is the second-largest nuclear generator in the United States. Entergy delivers electricity to 2.7 million utility customers in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.

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