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TOP STORY: HOW KEEPING CONNECTED HELPS YOU
Philanthropy Central Hudson honored for giving	Going Green Rebate programs make huge impact	10 Tips Improve home's efficiency in winter	Help with Bills Central Hudson, NYS offer aid	Safety Advice to keep you safe through winter
ALSO: President Laurito Q&A | BetterU Program Helps Women's Health | Contest Winners Announced

Q: What does Central Hudson do to support local businesses and job growth in the Hudson Valley?

A: At Central Hudson, we recognize that a strong local economy benefits the community as a whole. Economic development nourishes business growth. Workers get new and improved opportunities. Local governments receive the revenue needed to maintain infrastructure and better serve residents. Charitable organizations receive an expanded base from which to pursue resources to help those in need.

The bottom line is that economic development and quality of life are closely intertwined. Which is why Central Hudson is so committed in its efforts to keep the Hudson Valley an attractive place in which to do business.

Some recent and ongoing examples of Central Hudson's economic development commitment:

• Central Hudson offers a variety of six-figure incentives to companies for things like creating high tech or emerging growth industry jobs, or revitalizing abandoned industrial sites in our service territory. Click here to read our Economic Development Programs brochure which includes additional details about the range of incentives offered by Central Hudson.

• The impact of Central Hudson's economic development incentives was recently reported on in the news when Central Hudson was part of a team that helped keep a pair of manufacturing firms – Stavo Industries and Wolf-Tec Inc. – in the area and expand their operations. It was a move that saved the loss of local jobs, led to additional job growth and will lead to the investment of millions of dollars in the local economy.

• The Council of Industry, a nonprofit organization that has supported manufacturing in the Hudson Valley since 1910, named Central Hudson its 2011 Regional Organization Champion. It was the first time the Council of Industry bestowed an organizational award.When announcing its decision, the Council of Industry cited how "Central Hudson has played a key role in promoting economic development, particularly in the manufacturing sector, for many decades."

• The most recent New York State bill comparisons review conducted by the independent Edison Electric Institute found that Central Hudson "commercial" customers had the lowest average electric bill in the state – almost half of the state average. The study also found that electric bills for Central Hudson customers in the "small industrial" and "large industrial" categories were also among the lowest in the state.

• Annual savings for participants in our commercial energy efficiency programs since 2009 has totaled $4.8 million per year.

These are just some recent examples of Central Hudson's longstanding tradition of cultivating economic growth in local communities. It's a source of great pride at Central Hudson and a long-term commitment we make to those we serve.

How keeping connected benefits you

Customers line up at an emergency dry ice distribution center established by Central Hudson on Nov. 1, 2011 at the Poughkeepsie Home Depot. Information about dry ice, emergency shelters and restoration work is available on Central Hudson's Facebook and Twitter pages during major storms. News about energy efficiency tips, payment assistance, safety advice and other topics are also covered on these popular social networking sites throughout the year.

Central Hudson and its customers endured the second and third most destructive storms in the company's history in the last six months.

Ways to connect: By social media:   To update your contact info:

Tropical Storm Irene devastated local infrastructure on Aug. 28, with a blast of record wind and rain. Roads and bridges were washed out. Homes were lost. Portions of the electrical system – and even sections of the underground natural gas distribution system – had to be rebuilt.

In October, an unseasonable storm, dubbed "SnowFall," dumped up to 20 inches of wet, heavy snow on the Hudson Valley. Many trees – which were still lush with foliage at that early autumn date – simply could not support the weight, causing many large branches to snap onto power lines and disrupt the flow of electricity. More than half of Central Hudson's customers and millions more across the East Coast experienced outages during Irene and SnowFall.

While making repairs as quickly as possible, Central Hudson was simultaneously delivering vital information to customers in new ways. In addition to issuing updates through traditional media outlets, Central Hudson was communicating with the thousands of customers who flocked to its Facebook and Twitter pages for news about the restoration effort. Dry ice distribution details, emergency shelter locations, safety alerts, general restoration news and photos were posted to these popular social networking several times per day. Thousands of comments were exchanged between customers and Central Hudson during these storms as everyone pulled together to restore normalcy, safety and the conveniences of electricity.

"We would like to be able to proactively reach even more of our customers using the most modern communications technology available," said James P. Laurito, President of Central Hudson. "We encourage customers to update their contact information through our online Keep in Touch form or by calling us at (845) 452-2700. It is vital that we have current phone numbers and an e-mail address to be able to reach our customers in the event of emergency."

During the 2011 disasters, daily email updates were also provided to customers who have a valid email address on file. In addition to email addresses, Central Hudson is also asking customers to provide cell phone and alternate phone numbers through its Keep in Touch form as it analyzes text messaging services for possible inclusion in future customer communications efforts.

Central Hudson honored for philanthropy

Central Hudson was presented the Hudson Valley Leadership Award for Corporate Philanthropy by (left) Theresa Kerin, Director of Development and Public Relations at the Children's Home of Poughkeepsie and Co-Chair of National Philanthropy Day; and (center) Serena Marrero, Director of Development at Abilities First and President of the Mid-Hudson Valley Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Accepting on behalf of Central Hudson is (right) Denise D. VanBuren, Corporate Secretary and Vice President of Corporate Communications.

The Mid-Hudson Valley Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals presented Central Hudson with its Hudson Valley Leadership Award for Corporate Philanthropy on Nov. 18, 2011. The award is presented to a local corporation or business "that demonstrates an outstanding commitment through financial support, executive and employee involvement, and which encourages others to take leadership roles in philanthropy and community involvement," and is available to corporations or businesses of any size or mission. 

"We are truly honored to be recognized for this award, and pleased to support the communities in which we serve. The spirit of philanthropy is a part of all of us at Central Hudson, and our employees are consistent volunteers and supporters of local community service organizations," said Denise D. VanBuren, Corporate Secretary and Vice President of Corporate Communications, who administers the utility's community relations activities and accepted the award on behalf of Central Hudson.

"Throughout their history of serving our region, Central Hudson has demonstrated their commitment to improving the quality of life for those most needy. They are a very worthy recipient of the Leadership Award for Corporate Philanthropy and we were delighted to recognize their many contributions to our communities," said Mid-Hudson Valley Chapter President Serena Marrero.

Central Hudson, its employees and the shareholders of CH Energy Group, Inc. donated nearly $630,000 toward local nonprofit agencies and organizations that provide human services and small business support to Hudson Valley residents and communities during 2011 alone. Employee contributions made to the Community Fund of the United Way during the annual campaign are also matched. In 2011, nearly $376,000 in employee contributions and matching shareholder funds was raised in support of local agencies and programs.

Since 2005, Central Hudson and its employees and shareholders have together contributed more than $4.7 million in donations and sponsorships to local agencies and organizations.

"Just as important as their financial contributions, Central Hudson employees donate their time and talents, and volunteer thousands of hours each year to many worthwhile causes here in the Hudson Valley to make our region a better place to live and work," said VanBuren.

For more information on Central Hudson's community service initiatives, visit  the "In the Community" section of CentralHudson.com. To learn more about the Mid-Hudson Valley Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and this year's awards, visit http://afpmhv.afpnet.org/.

Central Hudson energy programs prevent over 100 million pounds of CO2 emissions

Lights were replaced at the City of Poughkeepsie Common Council Chambers in 2011 through Central Hudson's Commercial Lighting Program. Municipalities throughout the region have benefited from more efficient lighting at no cost while reaping the additional benefits of brighter lights and decreased energy costs.

Central Hudson's energy efficiency programs are helping customers go green, save millions and make a significant difference on the region's environmental impact. Through 2011, participation in Central Hudson's programs is preventing more than 105 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions per year! Efforts tied to Central Hudson's energy efficiency programs are also preventing 205,331 pounds of nitrogen oxides emissions and 410,662 pounds of sulfur dioxide emissions per year.

The more than 68 million kWh in energy savings is also saving customers approximately $7.5 million per year in energy costs.

"We congratulate the many individuals, businesses and local government agencies that have utilized these energy saving programs," said James P. Laurito, President of Central Hudson Gas & Electric. "We encourage customers to continue to take advantage of these offers to help improve their energy efficiency and save money."

To learn more about Central Hudson's residential energy efficiency rebate programs, visit SavingsCentral.com.

HOT SAVINGS

Natural gas furnaces
$140-$420
If you are a natural gas customer, let us give you a rebate of between $140 and $420 on a new, energy-efficient furnace. The higher the efficiency rating, the higher the rebate.

Natural gas boilers
$350-$700
We offer a rebate of between $350 and $700 for installing a new, energy-efficient boiler. This rebate is for both water and steam boilers.

Heat pump water heaters
$400
Is your water heater unreliable or costly to operate? Central Hudson has a $400 rebate for energy efficient heat pump water heaters. For this rebate, you may use a SavingsCentral Trade Ally or install it yourself.

Central air-source heat pumps
$400-$600
Central air-source heat pumps provide efficient heating during the fall and spring. Ductless heat pumps are perfect for those who want energy-efficient heating but do not have air ducts in their home. The added bonus is that heat pumps work in reverse and cool your home during the summer! For this rebate ($400 to $600 depending on efficiency rating), you must use a SavingsCentral Trade Ally for installation.

10 energy savings tips for winter

When the snow on one home's roof melts faster than that on other homes in the neighborhood, it might be a sign that the home is giving off too much heat through the attic or top-most floor. In that scenario, added insulation could help.

Keeping your home a warm refuge from the sub-freezing temperatures of winter can require a lot of energy. In fact, heating and cooling uses an estimated 44 percent of all household energy. So when it comes to saving energy this time of year, it makes sense to focus on keeping the heat your home generates in, and the cold out. With that in mind, here are 10 practical ways to conserve energy in winter:

1. Install storm windows
Storm windows can prevent up to 50 percent of window heat loss by creating a thermal barrier and restricting cold air from flowing in.

2. Identify and seal leaks around windows and doors
On cooler nights, hold a hand near places that would typically have leaks. If a draft is felt, this is a place to seal.

3. Close the fireplace damper
Make sure the fireplace damper is closed when the heating system is on so heated air doesn't escape up the chimney.

4. Change air filters often
When a filter is clogged your heating system has to work harder to force heat through. This wastes energy and can shorten the life of your heating equipment.

5. Apply a proper amount of insulation
Insulation levels affect the amount of energy needed to heat (and cool) homes. The attic is one place where it may be worthwhile, and easiest, to add insulation if needed. The New York State Energy Code recommends 10 to 12 inches of insulation in attics; professional installation is recommended for floors (6 inches) and in walls (3 ½ inches).

6. Insulate ducts and pipes as well
Insulate ducts and hot water pipes where they run through uninsulated areas such as crawl spaces, and repair any leaks in the duct system.

7. Install door sweeps
Attaching door sweeps to the bottom of exterior doors helps to prevent cold air from rushing in.

8. Maintain equipment
Have heating systems regularly inspected by a professional to make sure they are operating safely and efficiently.

9. Seal leaks around electrical switches and outlets
Use gaskets, available at home centers, to seal these often overlooked sources of leaks.

10. Upgrade your heating equipment
Upgrading to energy efficient home heating equipment requires more up front expense than most of these other steps, but the long-term energy savings are often enough for the unit to pay for itself. To encourage energy efficiency, Central Hudson offers a variety of rebates to customers who use electric or gas heat to help with the up front cost of the new equipment. Click here for current rebate offers.

Three ways to resolve to simplify your
Central Hudson billing in 2012

Did you make a new year's resolution to get more organized? Or improve your finances? Or are you just looking to save time? Here are three ways to do all of the above with Central Hudson:

1. Get billed electronically with eBills.
Go paperless. Thin out that stack of mailed bills and eliminate the need for envelopes and postage stamps. With eBills you receive an email notification when your bill is ready and a link to quickly and securely view and pay online. Sign up.

2. Get a consistent energy bill with Budget Billing.
Avoid seasonal fluctuations in your energy bill that are typically driven by seasonal changes in market supply prices and usage factors. With Budget Billing you will receive 11 uniform monthly Central Hudson bills per year that are estimated on your past energy usage. A 12th bill will reflect a plus or minus adjustment or credit to reflect your actual usage for the year.

3. Get convenience with automatic payment.
Have your payments automatically deducted from your bank account by signing up for Recurring Payments or Direct Pay. If you are already an eBills customer or you are signing up for eBills now, log into your account at CentralHudson.com, then click on "View & Pay eBills." Then, near the top of the eBills account screen, click on the "My Recurring Payments" button near the top of page.
You can also sign up for Direct Pay if you are still opting to receive paper billing statements. To do so, simply download this form and follow the instructions. Fill it out and return it to us along with a blank check marked "VOID."

NYS, Central Hudson offer help with bills

Having trouble meeting your energy needs? Central Hudson wants you to know there are options to help get you back on your feet, including:

• HEAP: The Home Energy Assistance Program helps income-eligible New Yorkers with the cost of heating their homes. Visit the HEAP web page for eligibility and application information. Customers who receive a HEAP benefit toward their Central Hudson account will receive a monthly Central Hudson bill credit of $9 for a maximum of 12 months. This credit is issued automatically on your account after Central Hudson receives your HEAP benefit.
• POP: The Powerful Opportunity Program is a temporary utility payment assistance program that can help eligible customers pay off their past due balance up to any amount over a 24-month period and stay current with future monthly budget bills. Visit the POP page on CentralHudson.com for details.
• A Deferred Payment Agreement: A Deferred Payment Agreement allows Central Hudson customers facing a financial hardship to pay charges owed on their account over time, based on their ability to pay. To qualify for a Deferred Payment Agreement you must first complete a financial statement. Customers with a Deferred Payment Agreement must pay the monthly installment toward their past due balance, while paying all future bills in full and on time.
• The Good Neighbor Fund: The Good Neighbor Fund provides a “last resort” grant to help pay the energy bills of customers who have exhausted all other forms of public and private assistance. The Good Neighbor Fund is administered by the Salvation Army and funded by Central Hudson customers, employees and shareholders. Good Neighbor Fund Grants are accessible to eligible customers through any of these four Salvation Army offices: Beacon (845) 831-1253; Kingston (845) 331-1803; Newburgh (845) 562-0413; Poughkeepsie (845) 471-1210.

Stay safe through winter

Cold weather is here and Central Hudson advises you to take action to keep your home safe. Some suggestions:

• If you have a carbon monoxide detector, test it. If you don’t, get one installed. Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and poisonous. Having a working carbon monoxide detector in your home is your best safeguard against this noxious gas.
• Never attempt to heat your home with your kitchen stove or an outdoor grill. These are extreme fire hazards and can also cause a buildup of carbon monoxide.
• Make sure exhaust flues and chimneys are cleared of excess soot and debris. Clogged flues and chimneys also present the dual threat of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Do not refuel snowblowers or other power tools with gasoline when near a heating appliance or any source of flame. Spills can spread and vapors can ignite quickly.
  

More safety tips available on CentralHudson.com:
Electrical | Natural Gas | Carbon Monoxide | Generators | Digging

'Good Neighbors' and gift certificate buyers win through two Central Hudson contests

Congratulations to Charlene Moore of Beacon (pictured in the above left photo on the right with Alana Mikhalevsky, Central Hudson Operating Supervisor - Community Relations & Consumer Outreach) and John Quis of Poughkeepsie (above right). Charlene won a Lenovo laptop computer and John won a Flip video camera for supporting Central Hudson's Good Neighbor Fund.

A pair of Central Hudson promotions held in late 2011 resulted in five prize winners:

• Charlene Moore, of Beacon, won a Lenovo laptop computer and John Quis, of Poughkeepsie, won a Flip video camera through a promotion in support of Central Hudson's Good Neighbor Fund. Customers who made at least one $10 donation to the Good Neighbor Fund between Sept. 1 - Nov. 30, 2011 were eligible for the drawing.
  The Good Neighbor Fund provides last resort funding for people struggling to meet their energy needs. It is funded by Central Hudson employees, customers and shareholders. Funds are distributed through the Salvation Army. Special thanks to Bit by Bit and CDW for donating the prizes.
  Learn more about the Good Neighbor Fund.
   
• Tom Wilsey, Carla Vitek and Maggie Apgar each won a $100 Central Hudson gift certificate. Customers who purchased a Central Hudson gift certificate in an amount of at least $50 between Nov. 1 - Dec. 31, 2011 were eligible for this drawing.
  Learn more about purchasing Central Hudson gift certificates.

Stay tuned to CentralHudson.com, Central Hudson's Facebook and Twitter pages, and your PowerTalk e-newsletter for future contest announcements.

Congratulations to Tom Wilsey (pictured left with Kyro Ojulo, Central Hudson Consumer Outreach Supervisor), Carla Vitek (pictured right) and Maggie Apgar who each won a $100 Central Hudson gift certificate in the prize drawing for our recent gift certificate promotion.

Produced by the Corporate Communications Division
Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.
284 South Avenue
Poughkeepsie, NY, 12601
www.CentralHudson.com

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