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News and Announcements

Low Income, High Energy Costs Grant Details Announced in Press Conference

Greenville, AL, August 26, 2010
Media Contact : Angela Green, Communications Specialist

(L-R) Congressman Bobby Bright; Ronald Davis, State Director of USDA Rural Development; Steve Harmon, General Manager of Pioneer Electric

Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Inc. officially announced details of a $792, 000 USDA grant in a press conference on Tuesday, August 24, 2010 at the Lowndes County Courthouse. 

Ronald Davis, State Director, USDA Rural Development, along with Congressman Bobby Bright made a presentation to Pioneer’s Executive Vice President and General Manager Steve Harmon announcing the details of the grant that will be used to assist qualified, low-income members with high energy costs. 

Part of the project’s goal is to replace 100 central electric furnaces (or electric resistance wall heaters) in addition to addressing health and living conditions. This is the second time PEC has been awarded this grant, $855,760 was received in 2006 bringing the total amount to $1,647,760. Since then, more 175 homes have been retrofitted resulting in reduced electric bills of as much as 40-50% and at least 100 more households in the same target areas will be reached with the funding of the newest grant.

The implementation of these energy efficiency improvements is offering a SOLUTION to the problem of high energy usage in homes formerly experiencing extreme utility bills due to structural problems, ductwork leaks, and failed central systems.

This program is another way Pioneer Electric Cooperative can carry our mission forward to deliver reliable service, in a timely and courteous manner, at the lowest possible cost to our members.

If you are interested in finding out if you qualify for this grant, look for details under the tab for our programs or contact Vice President of Member Services Linda Horn at 334-382-4902.

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