iMarc Launches MassSAVE website

NEWTON, Mass., Sept. 30, 2004 – To help counter volatile oil, gas and energy prices, the state's electric and gas distribution companies and energy efficiency providers* have joined together to launch MassSAVE on Oct. 1, 2004. Coinciding with "National Energy Awareness Month," this regional program is designed to assist consumers throughout Mass. with home energy solutions that will save money, help reduce dependence on foreign oil, increase a home's comfort level and benefit the environment. A Web site, www.masssave.com, officially introduces the program and guides consumers through a myriad of programs and tips providing year-round home energy solutions, incentives and rebates.

No cost, in-home services offered by MassSAVE can significantly reduce heating and energy bills by up to 30 percent, or about $400 per year, for the average family. Utilities and energy efficiency providers are offering educational materials, installation of energy saving measures and inspections to ensure the home's optimal performance is achieved. Financing and incentives are available for a variety of high efficiency improvements including the installation of wall insulation and air sealing throughout the home. Rebates are also available for several ENERGY STAR® products, which meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's standards for maximum energy efficiency.

The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) and the state's Office Of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation endorse MassSAVE. DOER Commissioner David O'Connor said, "The end of daylight saving time coming up and people using energy in the home for longer periods, in addition to an upcoming New England winter, means that we all need to start conserving our energy resources right now. Improving the efficiency of our homes is paramount to this effort and MassSAVE will contribute a great deal. We hope that consumers throughout the state will take advantage of this important initiative."

Massachusetts Consumer Affairs Director Beth Lindstrom added, "Unexpected cold snaps and greater oil demand will continue to drive up prices of heating oil for consumers. With MassSAVE, residents of the Commonwealth can protect themselves by ensuring their homes are as energy efficient as possible, whether they heat with oil or gas."

To learn more about MassSAVE, visit www.masssave.com, or call 1-866-527-7283.


* Participants are Bay State Gas Company, Berkshire Gas Company, Cape Light Compact, Keyspan Energy Delivery, Massachusetts Electric, Nantucket Electric, New England Gas Company, NSTAR Electric and Gas, Western Massachusetts Electric Company, and Unitil. MassSAVE is a Residential Conservation Service Program funded by gas and electric ratepayers. The program is operated according to state law and under the regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Energy and the DOER. Some restrictions apply and the program is subject to change. Customers with limited incomes are eligible for free services. Referrals will be made to local agencies.