The Keystone Home Energy Loan Program (HELP) is hosting its annual contractor/dealer update and sales training seminar in five cities across the state during April.

Keystone HELP is Pennsylvania’s official ENERGY STAR /High Efficiency Loan Program. Under the program, Allentown-based AFC First Financial provides unsecured, low-interest rate loans to homeowners of all income levels.

The loan proceeds can be used for high-efficiency heating and cooling systems; renewable energy generation equipment, including solar, wind and geothermal; and high-efficiency windows, doors and insulation; and other qualifying uses.

The low interest rates are subsidized by the Pennsylvania Department of Treasury, the Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority, the Department of Community and Economic Development and electric utility companies.

In the first year of the program, over 1000 Pennsylvania homeowners installed high efficiency home improvements using the Keystone HELP monthly payment plan. The loans are only available for work performed by Keystone HELP-approved contractors and for purchases through HELP-approved equipment dealers.

The contractor/dealer update and sales training seminars are intended for employees and owners of existing approved contractors and for contractors and dealers who want to learn how you can get involved in this beneficial program.

Seminars will be presented in the following communities:

· Altoona, April 13, 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Ramada Altoona;

· Allentown/Reading, April 17, 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., TekPark Breinigsville;

· Erie, April 18, 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., The Avalon;

· Pittsburgh, April 19, 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Holiday Inn Airport; and

· Valley Forge, April 24, 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Radisson Valley Forge.

To register or get more information, call 610-433-7486 or go online to the Keystone Home Energy Loan Program webpage.

4/6/2007