Sierra Pacific Power Company
Contact: Bob Sagan
Phone: (775) 834-4834

For Immediate Release

Sierra Pacific and the community are helping to warm hearts and homes with the Special Assistance Fund for Energy (SAFE). In 1999, SAFE helped 1,882 families, senior citizens or individuals in need pay their energy bills. The program is made possible by donations from Sierra Pacific customers, employees, and shareholders.

Customers may choose to donate to SAFE simply by adding the desired donation to their energy bill on a continuous basis, or as a one-time gift. Sierra Pacific shareholders match customer donations dollar for dollar, up to $125,000. Funds are then distributed through local social service agencies to people who are truly in need. In 1999, the SAFE program distributed $156,000 in Nevada and California.

Recycling at the white newspaper recycling bins, with the red and white SAFE logos throughout the Reno/Sparks community also benefits SAFE, in addition to the paper products Sierra Pacific employees recycle in the company. All recycling proceeds go directly to SAFE, and this total is also matched by shareholders.

Look for details in your Sierra Pacific bill, and share a warm feeling by giving to SAFE.