With the first cold snap of 2015 hitting Georgia this week, and a colder than normal winter predicted, Georgia Power reminds customers that preparation and planning will not only keep them warm but also save them money and energy. In an ongoing effort to help customers be more energy efficient, the company makes it easy to find energy solutions online at www.GeorgiaPower.com, as well as "on the go" with the new, free Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices. 

Five simple steps from Georgia Power to stay warm and save during periods of extreme cold and all winter long: 

1. 68 is great. Set your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower and maintain a consistent temperature in the house. Each additional degree has a substantial impact on energy costs. 
2. Let the sun shine in. Open curtains and shades on the sunny side of your house to let the sun warm your home naturally. 
3. Clear the vents. Ensure that heating vents are clear of any obstructions – such as furniture or drapes. 
4. Move the air. Small fans can help move warm air throughout a room and many ceiling fans can be "reversed" to push warm air down from the ceiling. 
5. Keep fireplaces sealed. When not using your fireplace, ensure that dampers are closed to keep warm air inside. Installing glass doors or fireplace inserts are also great energy-saving options.

Other programs and services available at www.GeorgiaPower.com include a free online energy checkup, the ability to schedule a free in-home energy audit and access to a variety of rebates and incentives which can make energy efficiency improvements even more cost effective for home owners and businesses. Additionally, the company's My Power Usage program, a free service connected to Georgia Power online accounts, allows customers to track their daily energy use online, project their monthly bill and stay within a set energy budget. 

Even with energy efficiency and careful planning, sub-freezing temperatures can mean higher bills. If customers need assistance paying their bill, Georgia Power is here to help. The company works with customers to coordinate payment arrangements and can connect them with community organizations which may be able to help them pay their bill including The Salvation Army's Project SHARE program. Additional information about bill payment assistance is available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/assistance, via phone at 888-660-5890 or by visiting a local Georgia Power office.