Oct 10 - McClatchy-Tribune Business News Formerly Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News - Qianna Bradley Omaha World-Herald, Neb.

Consumers can conserve energy -- and reduce their utility bills -- with tips offered at a series of statewide forums hosted by a new group.

The Nebraska Energy Assistance Network formed about a year ago to help educate consumers about energy conservation. It also wants to raise awareness of loan programs aimed at improving the energy efficiency of homes.

Jono Anzalone said Nebraskans will benefit from attending the forums. Before consumers can reduce their utility bills, he said, they must first change some of their behaviors.

"The forums will teach how (people can) be more proactive in their approach on saving on energy costs," said Anzalone, director of emergency services for the American Red Cross Heartland Chapter.

The Red Cross distributes money to utility customers who are struggling with bills. It joined the Energy Assistance Network, whose other members include utility companies, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and community support organizations.

"It's a great collaborative effort," Anzalone said.

The network is using its forums to talk about how changing common household items, such as lights and shower heads, can conserve energy and water.

Other tips to be discussed include sealing cracks around windows and doors and changing furnace and heat pump filters monthly.

Energy assistance programs also will be highlighted, including grant programs that help qualified utility customers catch up on their heating and cooling bills.

The Omaha Public Power District offers one of these programs, distributing assistance through the Red Cross from July 1 to.

Health and Human Services has offered the federally funded Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program for 20 years. About 34,000 have been helped so far this year.