Rate Cut from NV Energy

It's a small break, but most of us will be happy to take it. On October 1, 2010, reduced electric and natural gas rates from NV Energy went into effect. The average decreases are 6.7 percent for electricity and 8.4 percent for natural gas. According to NV Energy, this puts rates back at the 2005 level.

Nevada utilities are required to make quarterly adjustments to rates based on their costs for fuel and purchased power. Any changes, both increases and decreases, are passed along to customers with no profit to the company. NV Energy is also reporting savings from its combined cycle generating station that opened in 2008.

Now is the time to start preparing for the cold winter months. Simple things like caulking and fixing air leaks will help you stay warmer while keeping a lid on the utility bill. To learn about even more ways to bank energy savings, check out the free online Home Energy Audit available through NV Energy.

Help is available for those having difficulty paying their utility bills. Qualifying for the State of Nevada Energy Assistance Program is based on income and there are two programs available. The Energy Assistance Program makes direct payments to the utility company on your behalf and the Weatherization Assistance Program helps make homes more energy efficient with things like insulation and weather stripping.

Source: NV Energy, Reno Gazette-Journal.

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