Alliant Energy donates $4 million to help customers pay energy bills

Rhea-AI Summary

Alliant Energy has announced a $4 million donation to its Hometown Care Energy Fund to support financially disadvantaged customers in Iowa and Wisconsin. This initiative allocates $2 million for each state to assist customers struggling with energy bills, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds will be distributed through local nonprofit organizations, ensuring that support reaches those in need. This commitment demonstrates Alliant Energy's dedication to helping customers recover financially during challenging economic times.

Positive

• Donation of $4 million to assist customers in Iowa and Wisconsin with energy bills.
• Demonstrates commitment to community support and customer care post-COVID-19.

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• None.

Hometown Care Energy Fund assists financially disadvantaged customers in Iowa and Wisconsin

MADISON, Wisc. and CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A $4 million donation by Alliant Energy to its Hometown Care Energy Fund will help customers pay their energy bills. Customers who need financial assistance are encouraged to use the funds to avoid falling behind on their bills. Of the $4 million contribution, $2 million is available to customers in Iowa and $2 million is available to customers in Wisconsin.

“We understand many customers still need help paying their utility bill, even as the economy recovers from the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. We are proud to double our contribution to the fund to help our customers recover and get back on track,” said Linda Mattes, vice president of customer operations at Alliant Energy. “If customers are struggling financially, we do want them to know help is available.”

In Iowa, Alliant Energy partners with nonprofit organizations to distribute the funds. Customers in Iowa can review income eligibility requirements and apply for funding by contacting their local Community Action Agency.

In Wisconsin, Alliant Energy, in partnership with nonprofit organizations, will identify income-eligible customers and disperse funds to those customers.

The Hometown Care Energy Fund is supported annually with funds from Alliant Energy shareowners, as well as voluntary contributions from employees, retirees and customers. Shareowner contributions are not included in the rates charged to customers. For more information, including how to donate to the fund, visit alliantenergy.com/hometowncare.

“Providing support to those who need it the most is critical given the economic impacts of the pandemic,” said Tom Content, executive director of the Citizens Utility Board, the nonprofit advocate for Alliant Energy’s residential and small business customers in Wisconsin. “CUB appreciates the boost to the Hometown Care Energy Fund and Alliant Energy’s commitment both to help customers who have fallen behind on their energy bills and collaborate with us on innovative ideas to help folks in dire straits.”

"The addition to the Hometown Care Energy Fund will certainly help households that are struggling to make ends meet", said Christine Taylor, Bureau Chief of the Bureau of Energy Assistance at the Iowa Department of Human Rights. "We welcome the support of Alliant Energy to help Iowa families and individuals in need."

In addition to the Hometown Care Energy Fund, Alliant Energy offers several options to help customers manage their bills. The company’s My Account site allows customers to set up a flexible payment arrangement based on their ability to pay, track their energy use and make fee-free credit card payments. Customers may also request a payment extension or set up weekly or monthly automatic payments.

Alliant Energy also assists financially disadvantaged customers in Wisconsin through an Arrears Management Program. This program reduces customers’ past-due balances each time they pay their current monthly bill on time.

To find other resources available for customers who need assistance, visit alliantenergy.com/energyassistance or call 211.

Alliant Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: LNT) provides regulated energy service to 975,000 electric and 420,000 natural gas customers across Iowa and Wisconsin. Alliant Energy's mission is to deliver the energy solutions and exceptional service customers and communities count on – safely, efficiently and responsibly. Interstate Power and Light Company and Wisconsin Power and Light Company are Alliant Energy's two public energy companies. Alliant Energy is a component of the Nasdaq CRD Sustainability Index, Bloomberg’s 2020 Gender-Equality Index, and the S&P 500. For more information, visit alliantenergy.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Media contact: Morgan Hawk (319) 786-4040
Investor Relations: Zac Fields (319) 786-8146

FAQ

What is the purpose of the Hometown Care Energy Fund by Alliant Energy?

The Hometown Care Energy Fund aims to assist financially disadvantaged customers in Iowa and Wisconsin by helping them pay their energy bills.

How much money is being donated to the Hometown Care Energy Fund?

Alliant Energy is donating $4 million, with $2 million designated for customers in both Iowa and Wisconsin.

Which customers are eligible for assistance from the Hometown Care Energy Fund?

Customers in Iowa and Wisconsin who meet income eligibility requirements can apply for financial assistance from the fund.

How can customers access funds from the Hometown Care Energy Fund?

Customers can access funds by contacting local nonprofit organizations that partner with Alliant Energy to distribute the funds.

What is Alliant Energy's stock symbol?

Alliant Energy's stock symbol is LNT.