First Choice Power Opens Reduce Your Use(TM) Grant Applications

IRVING, Texas, Feb. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- First Choice Power has opened the application process for its 2010 Reduce Your Use™ Grants, which encourages nonprofits to be more energy-efficient. The $2,000 grants provide funding for energy-efficiency products and services to reduce energy usage and costs immediately and in the future.

One of the 2009 grant recipients, the West Shore Civic Association, a Laguna, TX nonprofit, works to improve its neighborhoods and hosts family events at its community center. Last year the nonprofit replaced its 20-year-old heating and cooling equipment with an energy-efficient system, thanks to the funds provided by a First Choice Reduce Your Use Grant.

"We are enjoying the energy savings during the summer and winter," said Lenny McCain, board member of West Shore Civic Association. "Meanwhile, there is the peace of mind knowing that the entire heating and cooling system is new and dependable. Thanks to First Choice Power, the West Shore Civic Association now has quieter, more efficient heating and cooling equipment that will last for years to come."

Texas 501(c) 3 nonprofits and chambers of commerce that provide direct services to the communities served by First Choice Power are encouraged to visit http://www.FirstChoicePower.com/reduce/ to learn more about who can apply; to understand what guides the funding; see what's funded; and to apply online for the grants. Applications must be submitted online by 5 p.m. on April 15. Only one application per nonprofit is accepted each year.

"Reduce Your Use Grants help community partners decrease their energy use, be more energy-efficient and have resources for their mission," said Brian Hayduk, president of First Choice Power. "There is a long-term benefit for our nonprofit partners; Reduce Your Use Grants are for resources up front and energy savings now and in the future."

First Choice Power provides energy-saving tips to help Texans save energy. Visit www.FirstChoicePower.com/tips for no- and low-cost ways to save energy in every room and appliance this summer.

First Choice Power makes customers its priority through long-time commitments to supporting schools and nonprofits in Texas communities and by providing competitive pricing and friendly customer care.

About First Choice Power

Based in Las Colinas, Texas, First Choice Power is one of Texas' largest retail electric providers. It is a subsidiary of PNM Resources, an investor-owned energy holding company that also owns TNMP. For more information, visit www.FirstChoicePower.com.

PUC REP Certification No. 10008 | First Choice Power Special Purpose, L.P.

SOURCE First Choice Power