Nevada Assistance Program Evaluation Released

The fourth evaluation of Nevada's state-funded energy assistance and weatherization program is available on the program’s website. Titled "State Fiscal Year 2006 Evaluation of the NRS 702 Energy Assistance Program & Weatherization Assistance Program," it is the fourth mandatory annual evaluation.

The program coordinates funds from a universal energy charge (UEC) that is assessed on most gas and electric utility customers with LIHEAP and other funds to create a statewide affordability and energy efficiency program. Program participants pay no more than the state median household energy burden (3.3 percent for 2006) for their energy bills, with the remainder covered by UEC funds and LIHEAP. Participants receive an annual, one-time per year benefit paid directly to their energy provider(s) and credited to their bill.

The UEC generates about $12 million annually with 75 percent distributed to the Nevada State Division of Welfare and Supportive Services, the state LIHEAP grantee, and the remainder to the state weatherization grantee, the Nevada Housing Division.

During SFY 2006 the program spent about $8.3 million in UEC funds for energy assistance for 17,446 households; it also spent $1.3 million for arrearage assistance for 3,446 households, and $2.8 million for weatherization. Combined with LIHEAP funds, the average energy assistance benefit was $822.

Completed in June by H. Gil Peach & Associates LLC., the evaluation summarizes program progress through June 2006.

Source:  Nevada DWSS

Page Last Updated: July 23, 2008