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NEWS RELEASE

Consumers Energy
2908 S. Center St.
Marshalltown, IA 50158
800-696-6552

Release Date: Immediate

Contact: Deb Borton @ 641-752-1593

Consumers Energy Introduces New Renewable Energy Fund

OCT. 31st, 2003, MARSHALLTOWN — Consumers Energy will introduce a new renewable energy program called the Neighbors Helping Neighbors-Renewable Energy Fund beginning January 1, 2004. This fund will allow Central Iowans who are interested in helping Iowa become more energy independent and in improving the environment, an opportunity to voluntarily make contributions which will be used to help construct and maintain renewable energy generation throughout the Consumers Energy service territory.

The program will allow both co-op members and non-members to support renewable energy projects in blocks of 100 kilowatt-hours for a price of $2.00 per block per month, with the maximum purchase being 40 blocks. The fund will then be used to pay those who construct renewable energy systems 1.5 cents per kilowatt-hour for all energy sold back to the wholesale market. Currently the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act (PURPA) requires that renewable energy producers be paid for the avoided costs of the wholesale energy supplier. That current avoided cost is approximately 2.8 cents per kilowatt-hour for all energy returned to the utility grid. It is the intent of Consumers Energy that the additional payment from the Neighbors Helping Neighbors-Renewable Energy Fund will help to encourage the development of renewable energy production in Central Iowa.

With the New Year fast approaching, perhaps a gift of clean renewable energy would make the perfect statement to your family and friends. Not only would you be supporting clean, safe energy, but you may also inspire others to help create a clean renewable world. Start the New Year off with a gift of clean renewable energy! Those interested in participating in the program or applying for funds should contact Consumers Energy at (641) 752-1593 or (800) 696-6552.