YUBA-SUTTER COUNTY, CA (MPG) - As summer temperatures soar across California, energy bills often follow suit. But for local families looking to stay cool without breaking the bank, the Community Resource Project (CRP) is here to help.              

Founded over 50 years ago, Community Resource Project is a Sacramento-based nonprofit that provides energy-saving services and financial assistance to low-income households throughout the region. From solar panel installation to weatherization and utility bill assistance, Community Resource Project’s mission is to help families live more comfortably and affordably, especially during peak energy usage seasons.

“Summer’s heating up across California, and that means more people cranking up the AC,” said Lori Hewitt, Community Resource Project’s Community Outreach Manager. “But with that comes something we all need to be aware of — Flex Alerts.

Flex Alerts are statewide calls to conserve electricity during times of high demand, typically between 4 and 9 p.m.

“One of the best things you can do during a Flex Alert is cut back on major energy use,” Hewitt said. “That means holding off on using large appliances like your dishwasher, washing machine or clothes dryer during those hours. Even small steps can make a big difference. Try setting your thermostat to 78 degrees if you can — or even better, use fans. I know small changes like that make a big impact.”

To encourage smart energy use, Community Resource Project is also helping spread the word about Power Saver Rewards, a program that rewards PG&E customers for reducing electricity usage during Flex Alerts.

“You can get rewarded for saving energy,” said Hewitt. “If you sign up at PowerSaverRewards.org, you’ll get Flex Alert notifications, and you can earn bill credits when you reduce your usage. Plus signing up is completely free. Anyone with a PG&E account can do it.”

For those who need more substantial help, CRP offers a wide range of services to qualifying residents, including installation of energy-efficient appliances, heaters and air conditioners, and even utility bill assistance. Their programs are made possible through government grants and designed to assist low-income individuals and families.

To see if you qualify, or to apply for services, visit www.communityresourceproject.org/apply or call 916-567-5220.