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Conference Schedule
Below is the list of conference tracks and a day-by-day schedule for the 2012 National Energy and Utility Affordability Conference. The schedule is a work in progress and will be updated regularly as information becomes available.
The symbol § is used to indicate general sessions or workshops for which Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credit is being sought. To date, credit has been approved by the accrediting authorities for Arkansas (8.5 hours), Louisiana (8.75 hours), Minnesota (12.5 hours), Mississippi (7.5 hours), Pennsylvania (11.5 hours), Texas (6.25 hours) and Wisconsin (10.5 hours).
Track A – Energy Availability and Sustainability
Track B – Weatherization and Energy Efficiency
Track C – Energy Assistance and Education
Track D – Energy Policy and Advocacy
Track E – Vulnerable Populations
Track F – Tribal and Assorted Topics
Track G – Utility and Fuel Programs
Monday, June 11, 2012
9:00-10:30 a.m. Opening General Session
Introduction & Comments: Cindy Datig, Chairperson, National Low Income Energy Consortium
Tom Stovall, Chairman, National Fuel Funds Network
George Coling, National Fuel Funds Network
David Fox, National Low Income Energy Consortium
Welcoming Remarks: Rod West, Entergy Corporation
Taste of New Orleans: Steve Smith, “He Said She Said NOLA” online blog
At the opening session of NEUAC 2012, attendees will hear from leaders of the host organizations and special guests. They also got the lay of the land for events during the three days of the conference.
One of the Opening General Session speakers is Rod West, the executive vice president and chief administrative officer for Entergy Corporation. In that role, he oversees the legal, human resources and administration, public affairs, federal policy, regulatory and governmental affairs, and corporate communications organizations. West previously served as the president and chief executive officer of Entergy New Orleans. During his tenure at Entergy New Orleans, he was credited with managing the rebuild of critical aspects of the New Orleans infrastructure after Hurricane Katrina, and for leading Entergy New Orleans out of bankruptcy after the storm. In addition, he oversaw the industry’s largest natural gas rebuild effort in history: the replacement of about 860 miles of underground pipe damaged after Hurricane Katrina.
11:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Session 1
A The New Look of Utility Bills: Fees, Surcharges & Trackers
Moderator: Marti Doneghy, AARP
Presenters: Cynthia Marple, American Gas Association
Ralph Smith, Larkin & Associates
New fees, surcharges and trackers are adding to the bottom line of consumers’ utility bills. Consumer advocates complain the fees and trackers shift risk to consumers because they are often adjusted outside the rate case process. Utilities say trackers are more efficient. Panelists will discuss this trend and what it means for ratepayers.
B Growing Green Neighborhoods
Moderator: Jennifer Gremmert, Energy Outreach Colorado
Presenters: Andreas Hoffman, Green Light New Orleans
Camille Lopez, Global Green
Vernon McQueen, Progress Energy Florida
Melvin Philpot, Progress Energy Florida
In this workshop, conferees will learn how utilities and other organizations are effectively educating and informing students and energy consumers about ways to conserve energy and promote greener living within their communities.
C § Dialogue with Federal Officials
Moderator: Skip Arnold, Energy Outreach Colorado
Presenters: Jeannie L. Chaffin, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Lauren S. Christopher, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Community Services oversees the more than $3 billion-a-year funding of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to the 50 states, the District of Columbia, five insular areas and approximately 160 directly funded Tribes and Tribal organizations. Representatives of this office will discuss LIHEAP funding and answer attendees’ questions on administrative and programmatic issues. HHS officials will also recognize state LIHEAP grantees that have provided expertise and advice on major LIHEAP initiatives.
D § Saving Lives: Keeping Utility Service on in Medical Emergencies
Moderator: Jacqueline (Susie) Holmes, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Presenters: Patrick Cicero, Pennsylvania Utility Law Project
Patricia King, PECO -- An Excelon Company
Greta Shelton, Southern California Gas Company
Access to utility service can be a matter of life and death for household members with certain medical conditions. In this session, which reprises a workshop from 2011 that conferees asked to have repeated, attendees will learn about state policies and rules that are designed to protect the lives and health of consumers with medical emergencies.
E Fuel Funds Revamped: Answering the Call of the Times
Moderator: Rhonda Harper, Citizens Energy Group
Presenters: Joe Guarinello, HeartShare Human Services of New York
Jennifer Rodriguez, Con Edison of New York
The current state of the economy is forcing fuel funds to change direction and seek new ways to grow and succeed. In this workshop, conferees will learn about the steps that some have taken to meet the needs of the community by changing fundraising, outreach, guidelines and more. This workshop will focus on how programs have changed to be more responsive to today’s customers in need.
F Hot Topics
Moderator: Jim Phillippo, Integrys Energy Group/Wisconsin Public Service
Presenters: Roger Anderson, Oregon HEAT -- Update on Waste Oil Recycling Revenue Program
Edward Gingold, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission -- Effective Fundraising on a Shoestring Budget
Judith Schwartz, To The Point -- Anti Smart Meter Reading Factions
Rosalie Stewart, Southern Bancorp Community Partners -- How to Establish Banking Accounts for low income Households
Karl Weber, Atmos Energy Corporation -- Utility Employee/Agency Volunteer Program
In Hot Topics, attendees join tables of their colleagues and presenters for 15-20-minute sessions of discussion or hands-on demonstration, and then move on to other tables.
G Using Social Media to Meet Goals, Engage Limited-Income Customers, Improve Outreach
Moderator: Kim Campbell, TXU Energy
Presenters: Matt Burks, E Source
Octavio Verduzco, Southern California Gas Company
Which social media best fits your business needs? The key is to clearly establish what you want your outreach to achieve and create messaging for each social media network to reach your target audience. In this workshop, attendees will learn secrets to help outreach messaging succeed and decide where to focus time and energy on its deployment.
12:30-1:45 p.m. Luncheon and Keynote Address
Speaker: Calvin Mackie, Channel ZerO Group LLC
Calvin Mackie is an inventor, activist, critically acclaimed author, internationally renowned motivational speaker and successful entrepreneur. A lifelong resident of New Orleans, Mackie is managing partner of Channel ZerO Group LLC, an educational and motivational consulting company he co-founded in 1992. He has presented to numerous civic and educational institutions, government entities, professional associations and businesses.
Mackie graduated from high school with low SAT scores requiring him to undertake special remedial classes before he was admitted to Morehouse College. He completed his degree in mathematics and was a member of the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Society. He was simultaneously awarded a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Georgia Tech, where he subsequently earned his master’s degree and a doctorate in mechanical engineering. Mackie has won numerous awards including the 2003 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring. Following the catastrophic Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, former Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco appointed Mackie to the board of the Louisiana Recovery Authority, the guiding agency to lead the state’s rebuilding efforts. In 2009, Louisiana Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu appointed Mackie to the Louisiana Council on the Social Status of Black Boys and Black Men. He is leading the state's effort to create policy and programs to positively impact the quality of life for black males and families in the state of Louisiana.
2:00-3:15 p.m. Session 2
A Energy Affordability: Supplementing LIHEAP Cuts
Moderator: Winston Feeheley, DTE Energy
Presenters: Shafiqul Bari, DTE Energy
Claire Bartolomeo, PSE&G
Larry Dawson, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
Many states have creative ways to address affordability issues created by cuts in LIHEAP. With these reductions in funds, how do we determine which programs make fiscal sense to implement? In this workshop, representatives from three states will share their experiences.
B Weatherization Program Changes
Moderator: Jo-Ann Choate, MaineHousing
Presenters: Josh Olsen, U.S. Department of Energy
Robert Scott, National Association for State Community Services Programs
In this session, conferees will learn the latest changes to the Weatherization Assistance Program, including the addition of ASHRAE 6.2 and chemical sensitivity, and its effect on weatherization.
C § LIHEAP Program Integrity: Challenges & Solutions
Moderator: Matthew Orlovick, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Presenters: Jeannie L. Chaffin, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Lauren S. Christopher, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Kay Joslin, National Center for Appropriate Technology/LIHEAP Clearinghouse
Akm Rahman, Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Community Services staff will provide a program integrity update since the June 2010 report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office on LIHEAP fraud prevention. Topics will include the status of recommendations from the HHS Program Integrity Work Group, the current program integrity controls grantees are already using and best practices for improving LIHEAP program integrity.
D § Addressing Energy Affordability and Efficiency Challenges
Moderator: Jennifer Gremmert, Energy Outreach Colorado
Presenters: Patrick Cicero, Pennsylvania Utility Law Project
Charlie Harak, National Consumer Law Center
Luke Ilderton, Energy Outreach Colorado
This session will be looking at programs that have weatherized multi-unit housing using an array of private and public sector arrangements.
E § Reprisal: Bridges Out of Poverty
Moderator: Chad Quinn, Dollar Energy Fund
Presenter: Jamie Stringfellow, Entergy Corporation
This workshop, reprising a very popular session at NEUAC 2011, will introduce a different framework or perspective for understanding poverty. It will explore one’s ability to survive in the world of poverty, middle class and wealth. For some participants, it may be a new experience; others actually may have lived these experiences. During the workshop, participants will explore the concrete experiences of people living through generational poverty and have an opportunity to develop and discuss the mental models of poverty, middle class, and wealth. Participants will be encouraged to share their experiences and reactions to the material presented. Video clips and group exercises will be incorporated into the discussion to help demonstrate these concepts.
F Hot Topics (continued)
Moderator: Jim Phillippo, Integrys Energy Group/Wisconsin Public Service
Presenters: Joe Guarinello, HeartShare Human Services of New York – Mobile Giving
Cynthia Jackson, Northern Indiana Public Service Company -- Quantifying Carbon Footprint Benefits of Energy Efficiency Programs
Dan LaMar, Sempra Utilities -- Marketing/Outreach Successes for Rural Populations
Susan Marshall, State of Alaska Heating Assistance Program -- Knowing What Works: Outcomes Based Performance Measures
Jody Robertson, Dollar Energy Fund -- Warmathon: A Fuel Fund Fundraiser
Ed Sivac, Hope Community Credit Union -- Low-Income Banking Options
In Hot Topics, attendees join tables of their colleagues and presenters for 15-20-minute sessions of discussion or hands-on demonstration, and then moved on to other tables.
G Unique Utility Approaches to Manage Credit and Collection Issues
Moderator: Sandra Sloane, New York State Public Service Commission
Presenters: David Conn, Baltimore Gas & Electric Company
Corey Green, Atmos Energy Corporation
3:45-5:00 p.m. Session 3
A Communicating Climate Change
Moderator: Chris Baker, AARP Public Policy Institute
Presenters: Sabrina McCormick, The George Washington University
Jeff Williams, Entergy Corporation
Making communities more resilient to the impact of climate change is an important goal. This session will explore new and innovative approaches for engaging with the public and vulnerable populations in particular to ensure that individuals and their communities are informed about the ways that climate change can affect their health and welfare and also understand their adaptation response options and potential costs.
B Energy Efficiency: Messaging that Works
Moderator: Jennifer Gremmert, Energy Outreach Colorado
Presenters: Merrilee Harrigan, Alliance to Save Energy
Lana Lovick, Entergy New Orleans
Joseph Pereira, Mile High Youth Corps
In this workshop, conferees will learn about new methods and innovative ways to deliver their messages, measure behavioral change and leverage their workforces to foster a greater emphasis on and participation in energy conservation and efficiency practices.
C Case Studies: Innovative Resources for Low-Income Consumers
Moderator: John Rich, Mid America Assistance Coalittion
Presenters: Tara Bunn, Atmos Energy Corporation
Rochel Ditmore, Atmos Energy Corporation
Angela Flickinger, Keep Wisconsin Warm/Cool Fund
Danielle Snidow, Dollar Energy Fund
This workshop will examine innovative approaches to multi-state energy assistance agency relations. Then, representatives from two fuel funds will profile the innovative fundraising campaigns that have increased financial resources available for clients in their respective areas.
D LIHEAP 101, 201 and 301: the Basics and Beyond
Moderator: Bree Raum, American Gas Association
Presenters: Libby Perl, Congressional Research Service
Mark Wolfe, National Energy Assistance Directors' Association
Since it was instituted in 1981, the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program has had a long and complex history. This workshop will examine the details of the LIHEAP history, the formula used for allocation of funds and recent federal policies that affect the program.
E Senior Population Explosion: Essential Connections to Essential Services
Moderator: Elizabeth Brister, Entergy Mississippi
Presenters: Nicole Claiborne, The Salvation Army-ALM Division
Howard L. Rodgers, III, New Orleans Council on Aging/Area Agency on Aging
Josh Wertheimer, National Council on Aging
There are approximately 79 million "baby boomers" in America and, on average, 7,000 a day turn 65. The 2010 Census showed that the number of seniors (65 and older), pushed by baby boomers, jumped 15.1 percent to 40.3 million, or 13 percent of the total population. By the year 2030, about one out of every five Americans, or 20 percent of our population, will be a senior citizen. Connecting this growing senior population with programs and services is essential. This session will explore innovative ways of getting assistance to seniors.
F Roundtable: Shop Talk for Tribes
Moderator: Jerry Snell, Cherokee Nation
Presenters: Marianna "Brandy" RayNor-Hill, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Terry Ross, San Carlos Apache Tribe
Patrick Strickland, Lumbee Tribe
Linda Walker, Yakima Tribe
Janet Ward, Cherokee and Choctaw Nations
During this workshop, attendees will have a chance to pick two table topics and listen to short presentations from experienced Tribal LIHEAP directors and federal staff on a variety of subjects including weatherization, coordinating resources, integrity laws and crisis assistance.
G Lessons Applied: Students Teach Their Families About Energy Efficiency
Moderator: Jim Jacob, New Jersey SHARES
Presenters: Mary Thompson Grassi, PPL Electric Utilities
Elissa Richards, National Energy Foundation
Children learn what they see and are helping their families conserve energy by leading by example. In this workshop, attendees will learn about an innovative program that is helping children understand the importance of conserving energy. These children, in turn, are taking these energy conservation techniques into their homes and empowering their families to take part in saving energy and saving money.
5:30-7:00 p.m. “Mardi Gras Madness” Evening Reception/NFFN New Members’ Celebration
If you missed Mardi Gras this year, here’s your chance to celebrate with us. Join your colleagues for a party fit for a Mardi Gras king – beads, music by a traditional New Orleans street band, food and more! Dress casually or don your favorite mask, and don’t forget to bring a friend!
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
8:00-8:45 a.m. NFFN Annual Membership Meeting
9:00-10:30 a.m. § Plenary Session 1
“Utility Commissioners: Issues Surrounding Protecting At-Risk Consumers”
Moderator: Sandra Mattavous-Frye, People’s Council, District of Columbia
Presenters: Lambert Boissier, Louisiana Public Service Commission
Cynthia Hedge-Morrell, New Orleans City Council Utility Committee
When making decisions concerning utility rates, consumer rules and utility programs, state regulatory commissioners must balance the needs of many constituents including consumers, utilities and society in general. One constituency is sometimes overlooked: low-income utility customers. Our panel of regulatory commissioners will discuss how they consider the needs of vulnerable households in their proceedings.
11:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Session 4
A Building Coalitions To Preserve The Safety Net
Moderator: Winston Feeheley, DTE Energy
Presenters: Joshua Baca, DDC Advocacy
Becky Brann, Vectren Energy Delivery
Jackie Hutchinson, Community Actin Agency of St. Louis County
Whitney Skeans, Consumers Energy
In this time of super committees making super cuts, this workshop will explore how to get the legislators to pay attention. Different states will share their strategies for building successful coalitions to maintain sustainable low income energy assistance funding.
B Healthy Homes and Weatherization Must Coexist
Moderator: Jo-Ann Choate, MaineHousing
Presenters: Jenae Bjellan, National Association for State Community Services Programs
Robert Scott, National Association for State Community Services Programs
Jennifer Somers, U.S. Department of Energy
Attendees will learn about how weatherization affects health in the home -- the good and the bad! The session will focus on and describe how our health is affected by weatherization efforts.
C Energy Insecurity: Lessons from the RECS and SIPP
Moderator: Jacqueline Berger, APPRISE
Presenters: David Carroll, APPRISE
Peter Edelman, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Leon Litow, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Ferit Ucar, APPRISE
In a study for the federal LIHEAP office, APPRISE analyzed energy affordability problems for low-income households using data from the 2005 Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS) and the Census Bureau's Survey of Income and Program (SIPP). The workshop will summarize findings on energy insecurity and the households' reports about the impact of LIHEAP on these problems.
D § Universal Broadband: Affordability and Adoption Challenges
Moderator: Olivia Wein, National Consumer Law Center
Presenters: Amina Fazlullah, Benton Foundation
Coralette Hanon, AARP
Broadband access is key to employment, education, healthcare, social networking, access to benefits, commerce and other aspects of modern life, yet 100 million Americans lack access. Some estimates rank the United States as 12th among nations in broadband adoption. The barriers to adoption are complicated and include affordability, digital literacy, relevance of the technology and availability. In this workshop, attendees will learn about exciting new initiatives like Connect to Compete which are private-public endeavors to close the adoption gap. The session will also cover the recent changes to the federal low-income Lifeline program which connects low income consumers to the phone network.
E First Time Bill Payers: Starting Off On The Right Foot
Moderator: Jim Jacob, New Jersey SHARES
Presenters: Nancy Cianflone, National Grid
Barbara Hyshaw, Community and Economic Development Association of
Cook County
This workshop will examine innovative programs to help renters and utility bill payers stay on track. Attendees will learn what utilities and nonprofits are doing to help low income bill payers start fresh with budget counseling and motivational tactics. Discussions will explore best practices and preparing people to assume responsibilities on their own.
F Tribal LIHEAP Programs: Guidance for New Coordinators
Moderator: Skip Arnold, Energy Outreach Colorado
Presenters: Lauren S. Christopher, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Matthew Orlovick, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Marianna “Brandy” RayNor-Hill, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Yuliya Rzad, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Margarita Valladares, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
A representative from the federal LIHEAP office and experienced Tribal LIHEAP coordinators discussed designing and implementing Tribal LIHEAP programs. The discussion focused on HHS block grant policy, flexibility and responsibility, state and Tribal agreements, guidance on setting up programs, policies and systems, and common hurdles to overcome.
G United We Stand: Agency-Utility Partnerships to Help At-Risk Customers
Moderator: Marsha Belcher, Community and Economic Development Association of Cook County, Illinois
Presenters: Aida Velazquez, San Diego Gas & Electric Company
William York, 211 San Diego
The need for assistance is increasing, placing a greater demand on agencies and utilities to help customers. In this workshop, attendees will learn how agencies and utility organizations have developed models and partnerships designed to direct families to various forms of assistance. The correct information disseminated to the consumer can in many cases allow the client to get help before service is disconnected and additional charges have occurred or assist in reconnecting off service customers.
12:30-1:45 p.m. Luncheon
Speaker: Ron Anderson, Ron Anderson LLC
Ron Anderson is a public speaker who has been described as mesmerizing, dynamic, inspirational and life-changing. Using his unique life experiences, enthusiasm, humor and storytelling abilities, he is known to bring audiences both to tears and to their feet. His wealth of experience and ability to reach all audiences creates a motivational experience that you won't forget. Anderson presents workshops and speaks throughout the United States to help in the development and growth of youth, employees and volunteers of multi-million dollar companies and organizations. His inspiring and motivating speeches, seminars and consulting services are designed to enhance the performance of students, parents, educators, service providers and employees. "As a teen, I was told that I'd never grow up to be successful in life because of my personal challenges, where I'm from, and what I faced,” Anderson says. “They were wrong!”
2:00-3:15 p.m. Session 5
A Hands-on Energy Efficiency Workshops from the Consumer's Viewpoint
Moderator: James McSpadden, AARP
Presenters: Pamela Nelson, Office of the People's Counsel, District of Columbia
Keith Ware, Eco-Green Living
The workshop will feature a unique energy efficiency outreach and education program developed by the District of Columbia Office of the People’s Counsel (OPC). Panelists will focus on the “show and tell” workshops that the OPC offers to empower residents with practical, low-cost measures to improve the energy efficiency of their home.
B Energy Efficiency Resources: Affordable and Easy!
Moderator/Presenter: Jo-Ann Choate, MaineHousing
Presenter: John Joseph, JAI Software, Inc.
Mark Wolfe, National Energy Assistance Directors' Association
In this workshop, conferees will learn how to access and leverage energy efficiency loan and grant programs. By doing so, we can help to make energy more affordable for consumers and reductions in energy consumption more widespread. Attendees will also learn about a program in Maine to leverage greenhouse gas emission funds to expand the weatherization program.
C § Technology & Data Sharing to Improve Program Integrity and Efficiency
Moderator: Edward Gingold, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Presenters: Rita Das, Twin Lights Group
John Grindrod, Sacramento Municipal Utility District
Michele Tantillo-Torres, Affordable Housing Alliance
Low-income energy providers -- LIHEAP agencies, fuel funds or utilities -- are using state-of the art technologies that can streamline many program processes such as intake, data exhanges and reporting, resulting in easier program access for clients and a reduced administrative burden for staff. This workshop will feature the TRUE program in New Jersey, which integrated Cloud computing technology to complement the “human factor" of the program, resulting in a more efficient and convenient application process for clients and workers at a reasonable cost. It will also feature an online “agency portal” used by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District that allows agencies to pre-qualify customers and commit assistance online, while the utility can approve assistance and credit the customer’s account almost immediately. Equally important, it enhances efficiency and integrity through automation, tracking, and reporting.
D § The Effect of the Political Climate on Low-Income Programs
Moderator: Bree Raum, American Gas Association
Presenters: Chris Hickling, Edison Electric Institute
Arley Johnson, Advocates for The Other America
The 2012 presidential and congressional elections will highlight pivotal choices in low income programs, such as LIHEAP, weatherization and energy efficiency policy. What future direction in energy policy can be expected following the elections? This workshop will discuss the “politics of energy policy” in a presidential election year, and forecast what is likely to happen on Capitol Hill and in the Administration before – and after – the November 2012 election.
E Financial Partnerships: Making Ends Meet
Moderator: Linda Yamauchi, Southern California Edison
Presenters: Jacqueline Berger, APPRISE
Thelma French, Total Community Action
People sometimes have to choose between paying their utility bills and buying food or medicine. In this session, conferees will find out how one utility designed and implemented effective pilot programs which increased customers’ ability to pay bills on time and promoted energy conservation behavior. In addition, they will learn how partnerships with other agencies and organizations can help clients financially.
F Using Social Media for Public Policy Communication
Moderator: Jim Phillippo, Integrys Energy Group/Wisconsin Public Service
Presenter: Matthew Burks, E Source
The communications landscape is literally evolving before our eyes. Finding your footing in this new world of 24-hour news cycles, real-time issues management and global social media can be difficult, but is very doable. In this session, we will discuss the evolution of information flow and the impact of Web 2.0 on how people perceive, digest and interact with information. From this foundation, we will explore public policy communications and how we can leverage social to try and meet our objectives. How do you get your message to the appropriate stakeholders? How do you break through the noise? How do you even get started? Where is this all headed? Matthew Burks of E Source will provide an informative and fun look at social media and what it could mean to you.
G Advancing the Smart Meter/Smart Grid Infrastructure
Moderator: Darleen DeRosa, Pacific Gas & Electric Company
Presenters: Cliff Gleicher, Pacific Gas & Electric Company
Ted Reguly, San Diego Gas & Electric Company
A recent survey found that 79 percent of Americans claim to know little or nothing about smart meters/ smart grid, yet 75 percent felt that implementing smart meters/smart grid should be a priority over the next one to five years. This workshop will get to the heart of the matter on the value of smart meter/grid connections, and try to answer consumers who ask “What’s in it for me?”
3:45-5:00 p.m. Session 6
A Improving Electric System Reliability & Recovery After Severe Weather
Moderator: Skip Arnold, Energy Outreach Colorado
Presenters: Barbara Alexander, Consumer Affairs Consultant
Claire Bartolomeo, PSE&G
Shirley Bergert, Connecticut Legal Services
Ice storms, snow storms, rain storms and other severe weather events have resulted in widespread and prolonged electric outages recently in some parts of the country. Some consumers experience outages even when the skies are sunny and blue. Do consumers expect too much? Panelists will discuss what has and can be done to improve utility response to major outages, ensure day to day reliability and educate customers.
B Weatherization Training Centers: Building/ Maintaining/Leveraging
Moderator: Jo-Ann Choate, MaineHousing
Presenters: Jane Killen, Louisiana Association of Community Action Partnerships
Jon Phelps, Louisiana Association of Community Action Partnerships- OakTree Village Science Institute
Jennifer Somers, U.S. Department of Energy
In this workshop, attendees will receive guidance from representatives of the U.S. Department of Energy and the Louisiana Association of Community Action Partners (LACAP) about how to establish and maintain weatherization training centers. The goal is to create training center programs that run effectively.
C Help! My Appliances are Ruining My Life!
Moderator: Mary Ellen Vanni, Fuel Fund of Maryland
Presenters: Lynn McDonald, Operation Fuel
Cindy McQuaide, Dollar Energy Fund
Debbie Stevens, Community Action Team, Inc.
Increasing energy conservation measures ultimately reduces utility and fuel bills. In this workshop, conferees will learn how to help change the behavior of lower-income households regarding energy use, particularly through the replacement of inefficient appliances with ones that use less energy to get the job done. Attendees will see how one agency took a strategic approach to close the energy affordability gap. They will also learn how to develop an energy-conservation education program that will be most effective in helping lower-income families to reduce their energy costs.
D § Effective Lobbying for LIHEAP and Weatherization
Moderator: Bree Raum, American Gas Association
Presenters: Patty Riddlebarger, Entergy Corporation
Olivia Wein, National Consumer Law Center
When you get an appointment with a policymaker or staffer, you only get a few moments to get your message across. How to be most effective in this brief period is an art. This session will present the "do’s and don’ts" of advocacy for LIHEAP and weatherization. Attendees will hear firsthand from experts about the best way to advocate for your position and also hear from representatives of a nonprofit organization and a utility about how they try to influence policymakers and create key relationships.
E Creative Solutions: Collaborating to Serve Target Populations
Moderator: Barbara Gomes, New Jersey SHARES
Presenter: Allan Lichtenstein, Poverty Research Institute, Legal Services of New
Jersey
This session will help conferees develop an understanding of the increasing need and creating collaborative responses. It will provide an overview of the poverty statistics from the Legal Services of New Jersey Poverty Research Institute’s Poverty Benchmark Report, impact data on some safety net programs and breakout discussions on resources that can be used to provide holistic solutions to clients in need. Attendees also will learn how Progress Energy uses census data to identify low-income neighborhoods to implement a comprehensive package of free conservation measures.
F A New Look at Assisting Customers: A Workshop Examining Programs Taking Action
Moderator: Merilee Harrigan, Alliance to Save Energy
Presenters: Rodney Shelton, Resource Action Programs
Steven Scheurich, Entergy Louisiana
Are you looking for new ways to help your customers? In this session, you will hear about two possible ideas. Entergy Corporation promotes the Earned Income Tax Credit to its customers. You will also hear a follow up on a presentation from NEUAC 2011 on the Oklahoma Department of Human Services’ Easy Savings program. It has helped more than 60,000 Oklahoma households take immediate action to save on their bills while learning to take control of their energy usage and costs.
G Utility Discount Programs: Gateway to Customer Self-sufficiency
Moderator: Carmen Rudshagen, Southern California Gas Company
Presenters: Alita Corbett, Pepco Holdings, Inc.
Ted Humphrey, Southern California Gas Company
In this workshop, presenters will give a basic introduction to assistance programs that can help the low-income households’ bottom line. The session will explore unique discount opportunities for low-income families, leveraging programs that provide discounts on fuel charges for SSI recipients and other programs to help low-income consumers.
5:15-6:45 p.m. Special Event
Join your colleagues for a special viewing of a new documentary recounting the history of the Weatherization Assistance Program.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
9:00-10:15 a.m. § Plenary Session 2
“Nonprofits Facing a New Economic Era”
Moderator: Jennifer Gremmert, Energy Outreach Colorado
Speakers: Ivye Allen, Foundation for the Mid South
Robert Ottenhoff, GuideStar
Patty Riddlebarger, Entergy Corporation
The energy industry is in a state of flux due to economic conditions, restructuring and regulatory changes. So, too, is the nation’s nonprofit sector. This plenary session will profile the status of the nonprofit community in the United States in 2012, articulate the generic issues that the sector faces in our present economic era and point out particular issues that will affect community-based organizations. It will also highlight the accomplishments and promises of the nonprofit community’s work, with particular attention to the achievements of two regional philanthropic programs that address energy poverty.
10:30 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Session 7
A Sustaining the Nonprofit in an Uncertain Economy
Moderator: Winston Feeheley, DTE Energy
Presenter: Susan Sherer, The Heat & Warmth Fund (THAW)
This workshop will feature a speaker from an organization that has been in existence for over 20 years, The Heat & Warmth Fund in Detroit. It will show how the THAW Fund has evolved from a small organization providing energy assistance after customers had fallen behind in their bills to one providing more proactive, wrap-around support to prevent customers from falling into crisis.
B Weatherization Results: How Are We Doing?
Moderator: Jennifer Gremmert, Energy Outreach Colorado
Presenters: David Carroll, APPRISE
Joel Eisenberg, Oak Ridge National Laboratory
In this session, experts will share their views and data about the degree to which we have become more effective at weatherization and how energy-efficiency programs are saving people money.
C Combating Burnout: A Little Energy Can Do Wonders
Moderator: Mary Ellen Vanni, Fuel Fund of Maryland
Presenters: Lisa Stoebener, Dollar Energy Fund
Patricia Wrice, Operation Fuel
A lot of the work with families struggling for economic stability requires employees to be compassionate listeners and to provide a wealth of experience in locating resources. When the helpers show signs that their light is fading and their warmth is cooling, the entire organization can be affected. Not only are clients then poorly-served, but also the morale of the workplace is compromised. How can we get those who help people in need back to their original intention for choosing this work? Can the employees re-boot themselves? This workshop will provide insights into burnout prevention, tools to “treat” burnout when it does occur, practice in dealing with burnout and knowledge about real solutions
D To Be or L-E-D, That is the Question: Whether 'tis Nobler (and cheaper) for Consumers to use Halogens, CFLs or LEDs? (This session replaces the workshop titled "Human Behavior and Conservation: Research Update" listed in the registration brochure.)
Moderator: Sherry Vogel, NCAT/LIHEAP Clearinghouse
Presenters: Marianne DiMascio, Appliance Standards Awareness Project
Charlie Harak, National Consumer Law Center
A new law (“EISA”) is about to impact the light (bulbs) in your life! Beginning in 2012, some of the old energy guzzling light bulbs will no longer be on the shelves. Everyone will save money with the more efficient bulbs, including low-income consumers. There is a lot of misinformation out there about the new law, consumers’ choices, and the savings consumers will see. The aim of this workshop is to share accurate information about the new law and to make sure low-income consumers understand how to benefit from the changes the law will bring.
E Best Practices: Effectively Reaching the Most Vulnerable
Moderator: Linda Yamauchi, Southern California Edison
Presenter: Pamela Nelson, Office of the People’s Counsel, District of Columbia
In this session, attendees will hear from a representative of the Office of the People’s Counsel of the District of Columbia, who will discuss the plight of the working poor, specifically on energy assistance programs in our nation’s capital. The session will focus on providing help to those in temporary crisis who have struggled to pay their energy bills and how the District’s programs might be adapted in other locales.
F NFFN Survey: Utility Best Practices for Customer Assistance
Moderator: Sadie John Kroeck, Peoples Natural Gas Company
Presenters: Louis Gonzalez, Florida Power & Light Company
Judith Martin, Omaha Public Power District
In an exciting new initiative, the National Fuel Funds Network, Edison Electric Institute and American Gas Association are currently providing a benchmarking survey for their utility low-income programs. It will provide much needed data for participants to measure their utility-sponsored programs. The survey planners will discuss its scope, the demographics of participants and the value of taking part. The survey will continue to be open after the conference, and presenters will review how to participate in it.
G Safe Communities: Mitigation and Pre-/Post-Disaster Initiatives
Moderator: Jackie Hutchinson, Community Action Agency of St. Louis County
Presenter: Irma DePratti, San Diego Gas & Electric Company
We all know that disaster often strikes without warning. It’s never too late to design or modify a community disaster preparedness plan. In this workshop, attendees will learn how utility companies, their local fire departments and other emergency management officials have created initiatives to provide increased property protections and safeguards for its citizens in advance of a true emergency or disaster.
12:00-1:30 p.m. NFFN & NLIEC Awards Luncheon & Closing Session
Join us for the presentation of the National Fuel Funds Network’s and the National Low Income Energy Consortium’s highest honors.
NFFN Sister Pat Kelley Achievement Award. The National Fuel Funds Network presents the Sister Pat Kelley Achievement Award, its highest honor, to recognize exemplary personal achievement in furthering the Network’s objectives of increasing public awareness of low-income energy problems, advancing energy assistance policy and promoting charitable energy assistance.
NFFN Victorine Q. Adams Award. The Victorine Q. Adams Award spotlights institutional innovation and achievement among nonprofit NFFN members.
NFFN Extra Mile Award. The NFFN presents the Extra Mile Award annually to a Member of Congress who has demonstrated legislative achievement for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
NFFN Corporate Excellence Award. The 2010 NFFN Corporate Excellence Award is presented annually for outstanding achievement on behalf of low-income consumers.
NLIEC Achievement Award. The NLIEC Achievement Award is presented to an individual or organization that has demonstrated consistent leadership in championing low-income energy issues.
Then look ahead to NEUAC 2013 in San Diego, California, which will be held on June 10-12, 2013. Be sure to turn in your conference evaluation form at the conference registration desk prior to the beginning of the closing session to receive a raffle ticket for our grand prize drawing -- a free registration for NEUAC 2013 -- because this is also the time when we will hold our final drawings.
© 2012, National Energy and Utility Affordability Conference, presented by the National Fuel Funds Network and National Low Income Energy Consortium
Major Support for NEUAC 2012 Provided By:
Southern California Gas Company
