Electric News Releases

Dominion Virginia Power Contributes An Additional $10,000 To EnergyShare

RICHMOND, Va. -- In response to high fuel prices and increased heating bills, Dominion Virginia Power announced Wednesday that it would contribute an additional $10,000 to EnergyShare, its energy assistance program.

The additional donation is in response to a challenge made to Richmond area businesses by Ukrop's Super Markets Inc., which donated $10,000 to the Salvation Army to help families in need with their heating bills. Despite a record $1.3 million in contributions for EnergyShare this winter, Dominion Virginia Power anticipates that the program’s funds will run out before the need does.

“We’re grateful for the increase in contributions this year,” said Edgar M. Roach Jr., chief executive officer of Dominion Virginia Power. “The additional donations will help, but we’re challenging other corporations to do the same. The need is still there. Companies banding together can address it.”

Local health and social service agencies in Dominion Virginia Power's service area will continue to accept applications through May 31 or until funds are depleted.

EnergyShare is an 18-year-old program designed to help those in need heat their homes after all other assistance has been exhausted. Dominion Virginia Power works with state, local and private agencies to identify eligible recipients. Every dollar contributed to this fund goes to pay heating bills regardless of the type of fuel or heat used.

EnergyShare is supported by donations from Dominion Virginia Power customers, employees and EnergyShare Partners. The company covers the program's administrative costs, which allows all contributions to go toward paying heating bills. The utility also contributes $50,000 in matching funds to help persons in need pay their Dominion Virginia Power bill.

Last year, EnergyShare raised $1.2 million and assisted 5,504 families, including 2,500 children, 753 senior citizens, and more than 1,400 disabled people.

Dominion Virginia Power is a subsidiary of Dominion, one of the nation’s largest producers of energy, with 1.9 million electric customers in Virginia. For more information about Dominion, visit the company's web site at www.dom.com.

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