Discount Power helps charities raise money

Retail energy provider Discount Power is doing more than just offering its customers some of the best electricity rates in deregulated markets, but has also partnered with a number of charities to help them raise money through a new profit sharing program.

According to the Hartford Courant, Discount Power has already raised $47,000 for Connecticut non-profit organizations, such as the Ridgefield Playhouse, the New Haven Symphony Orchestra, Connecticut Special Olympics, Coastal United Way and many others.

"We're very much community-minded in the way we conduct our business," said vice president of marketing Mike Ferreri. "We've developed a non-profit program that's mutually beneficial for both Discount Power and any charity that wishes to get involved. It's truly a win-win situation."

The program is open to any Connecticut non-profits that have already established constituency, and are willing to help Discount Power raise awareness of the benefits of retail energy providers and deregulated markets as a whole.

Connecticut has been one of the leading states for energy deregulation, with the market open to retail providers since July 1, 2000, which helped residents pay less for electricity when Connecticut Light and Power's electricity rates rose as much as 72 percent in 2007.