State energy task force begins hearings

By Globe Staff

A state task force that was formed to try to find a way to help residents cope with high energy costs this winter will begin a series of public hearings around the state today.

The Winter Energy Costs Task Force will hold public hearings this afternoon in Springfield and tomorrow afternoon in Fall River.

The idea is to "explore all options available for helping Massachusetts residents to get prepared for a cold, expensive winter," said Robert Keough, a spokesman for the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs.

Keough said officials estimate that the average family will spend $3,200 this winter on heating. That could be a heavy burden for many.

Some options that might be discussed, Keough said: boosting the energy efficiency of people's homes, increasing the amount of fuel assistance money available, and setting up emergency cold weather shelters.

The Fall River hearing will be held from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. today at the State Office Building, 436 Dwight St. The Fall River meeting will be held 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. tomorrow at Fall River Heritage State Park on Davol Street.