Second Nevada Program Evaluation Released

A second evaluation of Nevada's state-funded energy assistance and weatherization program, one of the nation's newest programs that use public benefits funds (also known as universal service funds or systems benefits funds) to help address low-income energy needs, has been made available on the program’s website.

Titled State Fiscal Year 2004 Evaluation of the NRS 702 Energy Assistance Program & Weatherization Assistance Program, it is the second of mandatory annual evaluations.

The program coordinates funds from a universal energy charge (UEC) that is assessed on most gas and electric utility customers with federal and other funds to create a statewide affordability and energy efficiency program. The UEC generates about $10 million annually with about 75 percent distributed to the Nevada State Welfare Division, the state LIHEAP grantee, and the remainder to the state weatherization grantee, the Nevada Housing Division.

Completed in April by H. Gil Peach & Associates LLC., the evaluation is designed to be read in comparison with the 2003 state fiscal year’s evaluation, when the program was plagued with startup problems, resulting in first year funds being underspent. Since then the program has made progress in spending funds, addressing computer and staffing problems and undertaking an outreach plan, according to the evaluation. During SFY 2004, the program served nearly 16,000 households and spent almost $8 million, providing an average payment of $498.

Source: Nevada State Welfare Division

Page Last Updated: March 27, 2008