Sep 5 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Stacie N. Galang The Salem News, Beverly, Mass.

Fall isn't officially here, but that hasn't stopped residents from hunkering down for winter.

With this month's electric bill, Municipal Light Plant customers will receive a newsletter outlining ways the city's energy provider can help them save.

Light Plant spokeswoman Judy Meserve said yesterday she has received nearly 20 calls from customers about ways to conserve energy even before her annual reminder.

"People are just nervous about the winter," she said. "They're trying to get a head start."

Meserve said rising fuel costs has customers on edge about the winter season. The early outpouring is unique in her 15 years on the job, she noted.

The Light Plant is bringing back its evening of conservation advice on Thursday, Oct. 9, at 7 p.m. in its auditorium. The popular program will feature a panel of conservation experts who will share ways to cut energy costs at home, at work and in the car.

When the program was offered three years ago, she said, so many people attended that it was extended to additional nights. Residents must call the Light Plant to reserve a seat.

The city energy provider also offers appliance rebates when customers purchase Energy Star products like refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers and window air conditioners.

The Light Plant has a certified home inspector available to help customers finds ways to be more energy efficient. The inspector will audit the home to ensure residents have adopted the best methods for reducing electricity and heating waste, Meserve said.

"He has a good eye," she said.

For more information on these and other Light Plant programs, call 978-573-1150.

Copyright © 2008The McClatchy Company