Press Release

Alliant Energy helps customers be "Power Thinkers"

New Web site connects customers to interactive tools and information

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – February 8, 2010 – Did you know that leaving a video game system on when not in use can cost you more than $145 per year in electricity costs? Did you know that turning your heat down five degrees before you go to bed each night could save you about $50 in heating costs this winter? Those that know the answers to these questions and are actively taking actions to reduce their energy costs and live a little greener are “Power Thinkers.” And, Alliant Energy is providing customers with a one-stop link of helpful resources and tools that help more people become Power Thinkers with a new Web site called powerthinkers.com.

Powerthinkers.com is a tool for customers searching for energy-saving ideas and other ways to live green. The site includes sections on saving money, smart living, renewable energy, energy-saving tips and interactive calculators. The interactive calculators are a special feature available to help customers see the impact of the actions they can take to save energy and accomplish real dollar savings. Customers can access the site by going directly to powerthinkers.com or via Alliant Energy’s main Web site at alliantenergy.com.

“A Power Thinker is someone who makes smart choices in how they live their lives; someone who looks for ways to save energy and make a positive impact on their budget and the environment.” says Linda Mattes, Director of Energy Efficiency and Renewables at Alliant Energy.  “Power Thinkers want answers, solutions and ideas, and Alliant Energy is pleased to provide a tool that makes those easily accessible to customers and others who are interested in learning more about living green.

“There are many resources out there on the Web that share information about green living and specifically energy saving tips and information.” continues Mattes. “Our goal was to provide one place to connect those who are interested with all this great information and customize specific content for our customers and communities.”

Highlights of the site include an interactive home, bill impact calculator, and compact fluorescent light and programmable thermostat calculators. Customers can determine average potential savings and then link to energy efficiency cash-back rewards or tax incentives that are currently available. Information is also available from established resources including ENERGY STAR®, the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency.

Alliant Energy plans to continue to add more features and refresh the content frequently. Alliant Energy is also looking for customers who want to tell their Power Thinker stories on the Web site.  Customers who have taken advantage of Alliant Energy’s cash-back rewards or energy-savings programs can send their story and contact information to powerthinkers@alliantenergy.com.

Media Contacts: Nancy Craig, (319) 786-4788; Scott Reigstad, (608) 458-3145