Alliant Energy: Urges qualified customers to apply for energy assistance

Media Contact: Steve Schultz (608) 458-3285

Applications now being accepted for energy assistance funds

MADISON, WI – October 6, 2010 – Alliant Energy is reminding customers that Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) agencies are now accepting applications for the upcoming heating season. The program provides dollars to moderate and low income level households to help pay a portion of their winter gas or electric bills.

“In these challenging economic times, it’s important that people know they do not have to wait until they are behind on their utility bills to receive energy assistance,” explains Tim Heinrich, Director Customer Support Service – Alliant Energy. “We encourage customers to check their eligibility now and apply as soon as possible if they qualify for funds.”

WHEAP payments depend upon household size, income level, and home energy costs. The program helps households with incomes at or below 60 percent of the state median income pay for home energy costs. For example, a family of four which earns approximately $47,245 annually or less, or a two-person family with earnings of about $32,127 or less, may qualify for energy assistance dollars.

To obtain energy assistance, qualified Wisconsin residents can apply to their local county energy assistance agency for WHEAP funds anytime between October 1, 2010 and May 15, 2011 or until funds are exhausted. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible by calling 1-866-432-8947 to locate the nearest county agency that provides energy assistance funds or by visiting http://www.homeenergyplus.wi.gov. Qualification for energy assistance is not based on whether someone is behind on their energy bills or rents versus owning a home.

Applicants must bring the following items to the agencies to determine eligibility:

* Photo identification

* Proof of income for all household members 18 years or older for the previous three months.

* Social Security cards for everyone in the household.

* Current energy bill.

* Rent certificate or statement from the landlord confirming whether or not heat is included in rent payments.

WHEAP administers the federally-funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Public Benefits Energy Assistance Program. The organization is part of the state’s comprehensive Home Energy Plus program which also provides assistance with emergency energy needs, emergency furnace repairs, and weatherization and conservation services. It provides energy assistance dollars to over 225,000 Wisconsin moderate and low income households annually.

Alliant Energy is an energy-services provider with subsidiaries serving approximately 1 million electric and over 412,000 natural gas customers. Providing its customers in the Midwest with regulated electric and natural gas service is the company’s primary focus. Wisconsin Power and Light, the company’s Wisconsin utility subsidiary, serves approximately 450,000 electric and 175,000 natural gas customers. Alliant Energy, headquartered in Madison, Wis., is a Fortune 1000 company traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol LNT. For more information, visit the company’s Web site at http://www.alliantenergy.com.