Dear Editor, 

Are you struggling to pay your utility bills?  If you are you might qualify for assistance from Energy Outreach Colorado. Call 1-866-432-8435 or 303-825-8570 to see if you qualify for bill payment assistance. You can also go to www.EnergyOutreachColorado.org if you have internet access.

There are also several programs available to recipients of Social Security income, SNAP (food stamps) or Social Security Disability Income.

The following is available: low income energy assistance, free weatherization - free insulation, air sealing, storm windows, furnace repair and LED lighting.

You might also be eligible for low-income solar energy if you qualify for any of the assistance programs. Boulder County and Xcel have a new solar garden for low income people that could reduce your electricity bill by 30% or more. If you are paying 30% of your income for utilities, you probably are eligible for help. So far it appears that 13 Nederland residents are eligible, but we think more qualify.

The Nederland Board of Trustees and Sustainability Advisory Board are also investigating ways to get discounted solar panels and grants for low income and middle income Nederland residents. Stay tuned.

Alan Apt
Nederland