Newsminer: Alaska proposes $1.2 billion program to help offset energy costs

From The Fairbanks Daily Newsminer May 15, 2008

JUNEAU — Gov. Sarah Palin on Thursday proposed a $1.2 billion, one-year plan to help offset the high energy costs paid by the state’s residents.

Grants totaling $475 million would be given to utility companies operating in the state, to be used to lower customer bills.

Palin said she expects monthly bills to be reduced by 60 percent because of the state aid.

Most residents also would receive $100 Energy Debit Cards monthly under the proposal, which requires legislative approval.

The cards would be authorized for purchases from Alaska energy vendors, like heating oil distributors, natural gas and electric utilities, gas stations and other retail fueling stations.

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