Energy Efficiency Program Expanded To Help Hispanics ‘Reach for the Stars’.

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and Runyon Saltzman & Einhorn, Inc. (RS&E) recently kicked off their “Reach for the Stars” campaign to increase awareness of energy efficiency products and cost-saving programs among rural utility customers throughout the state. The campaign urges rural utility customers—both English and Spanish-speaking— to participate in energy-saving programs that can cut a family’s energy bill by about 30 percent, or $400 a year. The average annual U.S. home energy bill is $1,300.

“Reach for the Stars” will capitalize and expand on the success of the campaign from years past – which has already generated significant recognition by educating Californians on energy efficiency, cost-cutting programs and rebates. The campaign began in 2003, and in 2004 it expanded to include Hispanic audiences as well.

“Energy is a precious commodity here in California,” said Pilar Montoya, the Campaign’s Hispanic Outreach Coordinator. “As such, it is vital that residents know about ways to reduce their consumption in order to save energy, save money and ultimately save the environment.”

The outreach campaign encourages all rural residential energy users to make permanent energy-efficient upgrades to their homes and participate in statewide and local gas and electric energy efficiency programs.

By replacing outdated appliances with those that have the Energy Star symbol, area residents can cut their energy bills significantly. Not only can their energy bills go down, but they can also apply for rebates when they purchase Energy Star appliances. Rebates are also available for other energy-saving products such as weather stripping, insulation and window replacement.