News Release

For more information contact: Abbie Hodgson, 785-271-3269

November 17, 2009

Governor Parkinson Launches Efficiency Kansas Loan Program
Recovery Act program to create jobs and reduce energy consumption

Topeka, KS- At a press conference in Topeka today Governor Mark Parkinson officially launched Efficiency Kansas, a new revolving loan program to help Kansans make cost-effective, energy-efficiency improvements to their homes and small businesses.

"Efficiency Kansas places a much-needed spotlight on energy efficiency across the state, by enabling Kansans to make energy-efficiency improvements that will have a big impact in terms of energy and cost savings for years to come," Gov. Parkinson said.

Operated by the State Energy Office, a division of the Kansas Corporation Commission, Efficiency Kansas is a unique public/private partnership that will channel $34 million in federal funds authorized by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act through private businesses directly into local communities.

"The launch of Efficiency Kansas today is just one more step on the path towards economic recovery," Parkinson said. "At a time when unemployment is at a 20-year high, this program will help save jobs and put more Kansans back to work."

Kansans will be able to access Efficiency Kansas financing through partner lenders and participating utilities. The maximum amount of funding for approved projects is $20,000 for homes and $30,000 for small businesses, although average loans are expected to range from $5,000 to $6,000. Recommended projects may include adding insulation, sealing around doors and windows, and replacement of heating and cooling equipment.

To ensure that the projected savings will cover or exceed the cost of the improvements, Efficiency Kansas requires all projects be based on the results of a comprehensive energy audit conducted by a qualified auditor. To kick off the new program, the State Energy Office will provide the first 1,000 participants a $350 rebate to offset the costs of the energy audit.

Energy savings will vary, but on average, Kansans who participate in the program can expect to reduce their heating and cooling bills by as much as 20 percent. As a whole, the Efficiency Kansas program will save 165 trillion BTUs, enough energy to power more that 1,650 homes in Kansas.

Through the development of the Efficiency Kansas loan program, the State Energy Office is leading the way in market transformation by creating a demand for energy efficiency programs, products, and services, but also by changing the way Kansans think when it comes to making home improvements.

"Energy efficiency is about more than just installing compact fluorescent light bulbs in your home. It is about making comprehensive improvements according to sound building science principles," Parkinson said. "Efficiency Kansas makes it simple and affordable to make meaningful improvements to your home that will not only keep you warmer this winter but save you energy and money for years to come."

More information about the Efficiency Kansas loan program is available online at www.EfficiencyKansas.com or by calling 1-877-448-3185.