The program has partnered with Richard Dent, former Chicago Bears defensive end and MVP of Super Bowl XX, to raise awareness of the program and invite city residents to participate. Since retiring from the NFL, Dent has focused on natural gas and energy management issues as the CEO of RLD Resources, LLC.
"The Two-Minute Warming campaign emphasizes preparing for the coming colder temperatures by reminding residents to check on their heating equipment and insulation to determine if they need any replacements before the winter weather hits," said Dent. "With just a few minutes of planning, Chicago residents can protect their families from an unheated home this winter and collect additional money through tax credits and rebates. It's really that simple."
This heating season, thousands of families in Chicago will experience an unexpected burn out of their end-of-life furnaces and boilers. Chicagoans can avoid the inconvenience to their families by having their equipment checked early, and if needed, replaced with a model that qualifies for the program.
In addition, many homes in Chicago do not have appropriate attic insulation, which contributes greatly to heat loss and increases natural gas consumption.
"Installing attic insulation can make an immediate difference in how your home retains heat and is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to make your home more energy efficient and comfortable, which can quickly lower your natural gas bills," said Dent.
Rebates through the Chicagoland Natural Gas Savings Program range from $50 to $850, depending on the equipment or insulation being installed, and are available to customers of Peoples Gas. Additionally, residents can also receive a $1,500 federal tax credit, which is only available until December 31, 2010. Information about qualifying equipment, incentives and how to apply online are available at www.ChicagolandRebates.com.
About the Chicagoland Natural Gas Savings Program
Funded by the ratepayers of Peoples Gas, the Chicagoland Natural Gas Savings Program offers rebates to customers, encouraging them to make energy-efficient improvements to their homes, apartments and businesses. The Chicagoland Natural Gas Savings Program is managed by Peoples Gas, the Citizens Utility Board, the City of Chicago Department of Environment, the Environmental Law and Policy Center, and the Illinois Attorney General's Office. Consumers may apply for rebates and tax credits through the Chicagoland Natural Gas Savings Program website at www.chicagolandrebates.com.
About Richard Dent
Drafted by the Chicago Bears in 1983 after four years at Tennessee State University, defensive end Richard Dent played a major role in the team's success throughout the 1980s. During the Bears' historic 1985 season, Dent recorded 17 sacks, two interceptions, one touchdown and 38 total tackles. In January 1986, Dent was awarded MVP of Super Bowl XX after achieving 1.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and one blocked pass, which helped the Chicago Bears defeat the New England Patriots to become Super Bowl Champions. Currently, he is chief executive officer of the consulting firm RLD Resources, LLC that provides telecommunications and energy solutions; natural gas management review; and liquid fuel management and solutions related to diversity management and governmental affairs. In addition to leading his Make a Dent Foundation, Dent sits on the board the National College, Better Boys Foundation and the Illinois Literacy Program. For more information visit www.RLDResources.com.
