LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – As summer approaches and temperatures continue to rise, air conditioners will start running full blast and lead to an increase in electricity usage. However, staying cool and comfortable does not have to come at the cost of high energy bills. By making a few simple changes around your home, you can improve its energy efficiency and beat the heat while keeping costs down.

According to the U.S. şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Information Administration, home heating and cooling costs can make up more than 52% of an average customer’s electric bill. In some cases, poor insulation, air leaks and inefficient HVAC systems can lead to even greater energy costs each year. To keep your home cool without significantly lowering the thermostat and save money on your bill at the same time, try these low-to-no-cost tips.

Improving energy efficiency with low-to-no-cost tips

• Change air filters. Air filters on some air conditioning units require monthly cleaning or replacing.
• Set your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature. The smaller the difference between the inside and outside temperatures, the lower your energy usage and bill will be.
• Buy a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat can help manage costs, is controllable, and can help monitor usage.
• Use fans to cool off. Ceiling fans, box fans and oscillating fans use very little electricity to circulate the air. Make sure ceiling fans are rotating in the right direction – counter-clockwise during summer – to push cooler air down into the room. Be sure to turn all fans off in unused rooms.
• Close blinds, shades and curtains to keep the sun out and the cool air in. Also, close air conditioning vents in rooms that are not in use.
• Seal cracks and holes around doors, windows and ductwork. Weather stripping and caulk will help keep the cold air in and the hot air out.
• Use the myAdvisorĚýłŮ´Ç´Ç±ô. The usage and cost tool can compare usage history by month, day and hour.

By following these simple steps, you can stay cool and comfortable all summer long while keeping your bills under control. We also offer free comprehensive residential energy audits and rebates to help reduce the upfront cost of installing energy-efficient equipment.

Exploring resources through Bill Toolkit

To make sure customers have quick access to energy efficiency, bill management and financial assistance resources, Entergy created an online platform called . The platform consolidates helpful resources for customers interested in exploring ways to lower their electric use and costs and learn more about different payment options the company offers.

Tracking energy use through myAdvisor

Meanwhile, customers can set electric usage alerts and monitor how much energy they use each day through bill management tools like myAdvisor which is available through their  account online. Tracking usage over time can help customers identify trends that contribute to higher usage and budget their monthly expenses. With the myAdvisor dashboard, customers have access to not only usage and cost details, but also bill history and projections, analyzer tools and more. On the Entergy mobile app, this information can be found by clicking the “usage” tab.

Managing bills through payment and assistance options

Entergy offers several flexible payment options so customers can choose when, where and how they receive their bills.

•  allows customers to pay their bills when it works best for them.
•  allows customers to “level out” seasonal energy use fluctuations, making their bills more consistent every month.
•  billing allows customers to get their bills emailed as soon as they post and instant access to two years of billing history.
•  allows customers to avoid late fees, writing checks and paying for postage by having bills automatically deducted from their bank accounts.

Entergy encourages customers who may need additional payment options to reach out. Customers can find out if they qualify for deferred payment arrangements or payment extensions on our mobile app or through Ěý´Ç˛Ô±ôľ±˛Ô±đ.

About Entergy Arkansas

Entergy Arkansas, LLC provides electricity to approximately 735,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř. Entergy produces, transmits and distributes electricity to power life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing for growth and improved reliability and resilience of our energy system while working to keep energy rates affordable for our customers. We’re also investing in cleaner energy generation like modern natural gas, nuclear and renewable energy. A nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship, we deliver more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to the communities we serve through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is a Fortune 500 company headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. Learn more at  and connect with @EntergyARK on social media.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – After multiple rounds of snowfall and extreme cold temperatures the last two months, many people are ready to welcome spring weather to the Natural State. But like it’s winter counterpart, spring can also bring dangerous weather like thunderstorms to our area.

Ahead of the seasonal switch, Arkansas has declared March 2-8 as . Entergy Arkansas is encouraging customers to observe the week by ensuring they have a severe weather plan, a stocked-and-ready emergency kit and a dependable way to stay informed of weather conditions.

Entergy Arkansas is a proven leader in storm preparation and response. Monitoring weather threats is a 24/7, year-round effort for our employees. We rely on our continuous cycle of planning, preparation, training and evaluation to serve our customers during severe weather.

• When a weather threat is confirmed, Entergy Arkansas uses weather forecasts and computer models based on knowledge from past storms to predict an estimated duration and number of outages that could occur. We follow a very detailed, rehearsed plan that has worked well for us during storm recovery. Every storm is unique, so while plans are rehearsed and in place, we also adapt to ever-changing conditions brought by Mother Nature.

Entergy recognizes that the intensity and frequency of major storms are increasing which is why the company is taking an accelerated approach to storm hardening and building resilience into the electric system.

“After each severe weather event we experience we take steps to harden the system with taller and wider poles and concrete structures where needed,” said Adam Effrein, vice president of reliability for Entergy Arkansas. “And every year, our teams execute reliability projects to redesign and upgrade parts of the system, making power restoration safer and quicker in the future.”

 includes year-round planning and training, then monitoring weather, mobilizing crews and acting as safely and quickly as possible when severe weather strikes. We’re asking customers to join us by:

• .
  • Sit down with your family and share all emergency contact information, so everyone knows how and who to alert.
  • Designate one or more out-of-town contacts.
  • Be aware of the emergency plans at work, and if applicable, your children’s school or elderly family members’ residences if they do not live with you.
  • If your household depends on , discuss with your physician, including alternate living arrangements, should unplanned, extended outages occur.
• • Experts agree it’s a good idea to have items such as non-perishable food, plenty of water, flashlights, a first aid kit with extra batteries and a portable phone charger on hand and easy to access in case of storms.
  • Remember to check the expiration dates on your supplies often and replace the expired items.
• Keeping up with weather updates.
  • Install a smart phone app that will alert you when severe weather is in the area or sign up for emergency alerts on your smartphone.
  • A weather radio with a loud alarm can also help wake you when severe weather threatens overnight.

After impact, stay informed

Knowing what’s happening around you will help you make more informed storm-related decisions. Verify or update your contact information now at  to receive the most up-to-date information during weather events.

Get current news and updates on Entergy Arkansas’ restoration efforts by:

• Downloading the Entergy App. Customers can use the app to report outages or check on the status of power at their home or business.
• Checking our View Outage website. Maps show where outages are located and give information about restoration progress.
• Following us on Ěý˛ą˛Ô»ĺĚý Social media plays an important role in keeping you informed.
• Signing up for  about storm and restoration efforts by texting REG to 36778.
• Visiting the  website. The site has storm safety, preparation and restoration information that is updated throughout the day.
• Knowing how to communicate with Entergy Arkansas after a storm hits is important. Customers can report outages and downed power lines on the app or by calling us at 800-9OUTAGE (800-968-8243).

About Entergy Arkansas

Entergy Arkansas provides electricity to approximately 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř, a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. For the latest news from Entergy Arkansas, visit the  and connect with @EntergyArk on social media.

I am an Engineering Instructor/Program Lead at Arkansas Nuclear One. I manage the accredited engineering training program at ANO. This involves not only overseeing the curriculum and delivery of the training at ANO, but also collaborating closely with engineering leadership across our fleet to identify and address any training needs at the fleet level.

Tell me about how your job impacts plant reliability? 

The engineering training program at ANO is designed to ensure our engineers are fully equipped with the essential knowledge and skills needed to effectively support the plant’s operations. Training is provided for initial orientation to introduce engineers to the intricate details and systems of the plant, recurring refresher training to keep skills and knowledge up-to-date, targeted trainings to address any performance gaps or areas requiring improvement and additional specialized trainings as needed. These trainings reinforce the importance of advocacy and technical conscience to improve plant reliability and protect the health and safety of the public.

Tell me about the importance your department has in keeping the plant online? â¶ÄŻ

The training department is critical to keeping the plant online. We train operations, technicians, engineers and craft to safely run ANO.

Why do you love ANO?

I love the strong sense of community we have here, it’s easy to make friendships with those we work with. I also love the positive influence ANO has on the local River Valley area – ANO truly helps make this a great place to live.

What is a fun fact about you?

My husband is a pilot, and I love to go fly in our plane with him! I’ve started flight training – with him as my instructor.

What is your why?

My family – I want ANO to continue producing clean carbon-free energy to support the needs of our lifestyles and local communities. I am proud to contribute to that.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Entergy Arkansas is reminding customers about available bill management and assistance resources after the company’s service area saw historic winter and record-breaking energy demand in January.

“This January brought snowfall and several consecutive days of below-freezing temperatures, causing some customers to use more energy to heat their homes,” said Ventrell Thompson, vice president of customer service for Entergy Arkansas. “Higher usage can lead to higher-than-normal bills, but we’re committed to providing resources, tools and payment options to help customers manage their energy costs through the winter months.”

Extreme weather impact and historic energy demand

According to the National Weather Service, January brought prolonged stretches of below average and even freezing temperatures to communities in Entergy Arkansas’ service area. The entire state of Arkansas experienced a significant winter storm January 9-10 that brought substantial snowfall to many areas, including more than six inches of snow in Little Rock, and a wintry mix of precipitation to the southern part of the state.

The chart below shows the average temperature lows and actual temperature lows from January 1-26 for these areas.

During this time period, the Little Rock area saw 14 days of temperatures at or below the average low.  This extreme weather caused historic energy consumption as customers relied heavily on heaters and other appliances to stay warm.

The Entergy companies combined reached a new winter peak load of approximately 21,336 megawatt-hours during the week of Jan. 20, surpassing the previous record by nearly 790 MWh. Entergy Arkansas, specifically, surpassed its previous peak set in January 2024.

şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř usage varies by household

While cold weather drives increased energy consumption, the impact on individual customers varies based on numerous factors, such as thermostat settings, home size, insulation and location.

It takes a lot of power to heat homes, and this increased energy consumption can lead to higher-than-normal bills. For example, if it is 90 degrees outside and you want to cool your home to 72, that is a difference of 18 degrees. Meanwhile, if it is 30 degrees outside and you want to warm your home to 68, that is a difference of 38 degrees. The wider the temperature difference, the harder your system works.

Resources to track usage and manage bills

• Entergy’s Bill Toolkit is a one-stop resource connecting customers to tools and information to better manage their energy bills. The toolkit offers guidance on tracking energy usage, understanding bill projections, and accessing payment assistance options. Key resources include:

• łľ˛â´ˇ»ĺ±ąľ±˛ő´Ç°ůĚýdashboard: Gives customers an estimate of what projected energy usage costs could be by the end of the billing cycle.

• Bill analyzer tools: Help customers understand changes in their energy consumption and plan accordingly.

• Different payment options: Programs like Level Billing, AutoPay and Pick-A-Date can provide a more consistent monthly bill and offer control over payment schedules.

These tools empower customers to make informed decisions, monitor their energy consumption and budget effectively.

Customers in need of assistance or interested in bill management resources are encouraged to visit  or contact Entergy at 1-800-ENTERGY (1-800-368-3749).

Bill assistance options

Entergy Arkansas is committed to supporting customers with various bill management resources:

• Deferred payment arrangements: Customers may be able to spread payments over time by putting in a request through myEntergy or the mobile app or by calling over the phone.

• Low Income Home şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Federally funded assistance for eligible households.

• The Power to Care: Provides emergency bill payment assistance for seniors and disabled individuals through local nonprofit partners.

• Ěý±č˛ą°ůłŮ˛Ô±đ°ů˛őłóľ±±č: Entergy has partnered with Single Stop, a free resource that helps customers check eligibility for federal, state and local benefits.

Entergy Arkansas encourages customers who may need additional payment options to contact us. To see if customers automatically qualify for deferred payment arrangements or payment extensions, they can visit our mobile appĚý´Ç°ůĚý.

Proactive winter preparedness

With winter weather not yet over, Entergy Arkansas urges customers to take proactive steps to weatherize their homes and improve energy efficiency. Simple measures, such as caulking, sealing windows and doors or using programmable thermostats, can help reduce energy usage and costs.

Entergy Arkansas’ power grid and its employees remain ready for the next weather event. The company is committed to investing in the reliability and resilience of its system to better serve its customers during future storms.

About Entergy Arkansas

Entergy Arkansas provides electricity to approximately 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř, a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. For the latest news from Entergy Arkansas, visit the  and connect with @EntergyArk on social media.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – IRS-certified volunteers with Entergy Arkansas and several community partners will offer free tax preparation through the  program at Super Tax Day events across the state to help customers in need maximize their tax refund.

Qualified taxpayers include those with a 2024 income of less than $67,000, those with disabilities, and limited-English speaking households. Customers will have access to essential information about qualifying tax credits and deductions, including the federal Earned Income Tax Credit, a key program that helps lift many Americans out of poverty.

For nearly 20 years, Entergy has provided free tax preparation customers at VITA sites throughout its four-state service region, including several locations across Arkansas. Last year, VITA volunteers helped file 9,313 tax returns in the state, which resulted in $4.4 million in EITC dollars and $11.5 million total in tax refunds to Arkansans.

“Our Super Tax Day events are an important part of our commitment to helping meet our customers’ needs in ways that improve their everyday lives,” said Brandi Hinkle with Entergy Arkansas Corporate Social Responsibility. “We want to help customers navigate the tax preparation and return process more easily and receive the most money for which they’re eligible.

The largest Super Tax Day event for Arkansas is open to the public and will be held Saturday, Feb. 8 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in partnership with Arkansas Asset Builders at Our House, 302 E. Roosevelt Rd., Little Rock 72206. Appointments are recommended and can be scheduled online at , but walk-ins are also welcome.

For the most accurate assistance and timely filing, customers should bring their government-issued photo identification; Social Security card or ITIN for self, spouse and all dependents; all wage and earnings statements, such as Form W-2 or 1099; Form 1095-A Health Insurance statements; IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN); and banking information for direct deposit. For a complete checklist, visit .

“We are especially excited to partner with Arkansas Asset Builders and Our House in Little Rock as tax season begins,” Hinkle said. “These two organizations are dedicated to empowering individuals and families in need in becoming more independent, financially stable and successful in the workforce, school and our communities.”

In addition to tax preparation at Super Tax Day, customers will also receive information on how to enroll their children ages 16 and younger in Kids to College, a free child savings account powered by Entergy. Entergy will contribute $50 and match any savings in the account up to $300 this calendar year for each child.

Additional service providers will be also on hand to help customers as well, including Arkansas Minority Health Commission, Central Arkansas Development Council, Entergy Solutions, IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service, Legal Aid of Arkansas, Southern Bancorp and UA-Little Rock Bowen School of Law Low Income Tax Clinic.

“We recommend individuals schedule appointments online,” said Joyia Yorgey, Arkansas Asset Builders executive director, “but we encourage anyone who might qualify to come by for assistance, as well as lots of information and opportunities to find other resources. We’ll also have free chips, hot dogs and drinks for attendees.”

Other Entergy Arkansas Super Tax Day dates, time and locations include:

• Saturday, Feb. 1 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Goodwill Industries, 7400 Scott Hamilton Dr., Little Rock 72209.
• Saturday, Feb. 8 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., J Austin White Cultural Center, 185 S. Main St., Eudora 71640.
• Saturday, Feb. 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mississippi County Economic Opportunity Commission, 1400 N. Division St., Blytheville 72315.
• Saturday, Feb. 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Southern Bancorp, 425 E. Plaza, West Helena 72390.
• Saturday, Feb. 22 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., St. Bernards Medical Center Auditorium, 505 E. Washington Ave., Jonesboro 72401.
• Saturday, March 15 and Saturday, April 12 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mississippi County Economic Opportunity Commission, 1400 N. Division St., Blytheville 72315.

VITA services are not only free but are also a reliable and trusted source for preparing tax returns. All volunteers who prepare returns must pass tax law training that meets or exceeds IRS standards. This training includes maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of all taxpayer information. In addition to requiring volunteers to certify their knowledge of the tax laws, the IRS requires a quality review check for every return prepared at a VITA site prior to filing.

This year’s Super Tax Day events will take place at locations throughout Arkansas throughout tax season, making it convenient for customers to take advantage of this free and valuable service. However, customers unable to attend an event in their area can still receive free, in-person tax preparation services by scheduling an appointment at one of several Entergy-sponsored VITA sites through April 15 or using the no-cost, online counseling services at entergy.com/freetaxhelp.

About Entergy Arkansas

Entergy Arkansas provides electricity to approximately 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř, a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. For the latest news from Entergy Arkansas, visit the  and connect with @EntergyArk on social media.

About Arkansas Asset Builders

Arkansas Asset Builders is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals and families to improve their financial well-being. We offer free tax assistance and financial education programs that help hardworking Arkansans manage their spending, grow savings, pay down debt, and achieve their financial goals. Since 2017, we have connected low-to-moderate income taxpayers to more than $2.9 million in federal tax refunds. Learn more about how you can get involved at .

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Entergy Arkansas customers who need help paying their winter utility bills can apply now for up to $475 in assistance through the federal Low-Income Home şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Assistance Program, or LIHEAP. The program’s regular assistance application period runs Jan. 6 through the end of March, officials said, or until funds are expended while crisis assistance applications will be accepted through April 30.

LIHEAP is a critical, life-saving program that targets and serves the most vulnerable households, including older Americans, individuals with disabilities, and families with young children. Many rely on fixed monthly incomes, meaning that their pay does not increase when the cost of heating and cooling their homes increases. LIHEAP recipients make heartbreaking choices every day between food, medicine, or utilities.

LIHEAP is designed to lower the energy burden by paying benefits for home energy bills for low-income households, who pay a higher proportion of their income for home energy costs. The program is available during summer and winter, as heating and air units work harder and use more energy during extreme temperatures.

An online application is available for most Entergy Arkansas customers at , but applications can also be made in person at local community-based organizations.

“Customers can quickly and easily complete the LIHEAP application and upload the required documents from a computer, tablet or smart phone,” said Brandi Hinkle with Entergy Arkansas Corporate Social Responsibility. “We encourage family and friends to help those who might not be as tech-savvy to help expedite their applications when possible.”

°Őłó±đĚý manages the LIHEAP program for electricity, natural gas and water, but applications for assistance must be made through a community-based organization. Customers can find their local community action agency online at www.adeq.state.ar.us/, along with a complete list of eligibility and required documentation to complete the application.

Eligibility in Arkansas is determined by household size and income, which is 60% of state median income and 150% of Federal Poverty Level. For example, a single individual with a maximum monthly countable income of $2,054 and a family of four with $3,949 would both be eligible. Required documentation includes digital copies of a photo ID for the utility account holder, Social Security cards for all household members, proof of income, proof of residency and copies of the most recent utility bills. Once approved for LIHEAP funding, agencies make a pledge on a customer’s account for reconnection or to prevent disconnection.

About 45% of Entergy Arkansas customers are considered low-income households, meaning their total income is less than $40,000 annually. Data also shows that one in five Arkansans faces food insecurity, as well as an inability to pay for other necessities.

“Entergy Arkansas is always seeking ways to help our customers and the LIHEAP program is an excellent resource to help during financial difficulty,” Hinkle said. “The online application makes the process faster to ensure your power stays on or can be reconnected if necessary, which is especially important when temperatures are low.”

The most recent data from the National şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř and Utility Affordability Coalition indicates that while more than 327,000 households were eligible for LIHEAP funds, only 66,407 received the funding because the $41M in funding was exhausted. In Arkansas, 75% of those who did receive LIHEAP assistance had at least one vulnerable member: an elderly person, disabled individual or a child younger than 6.

Each year, representatives from utility companies including Entergy Arkansas and local community action agencies come together as part of LIHEAP Action Days to advocate for those who are most in need and implore congress to adequately fund the program.

For additional ways to help with managing your Entergy Arkansas bill, such as Level Billing or Pick A Date, visit , where energy efficiency tips can also be found. A one-stop source for public benefits and other resources can also be found at our , which provides recommendations for help with housing, jobs, education, and legal assistance based on location and eligibility.

About Entergy Arkansas

Entergy Arkansas provides electricity to approximately 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř, a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. For the latest news from Entergy Arkansas, visit the  and connect with @EntergyArk on social media.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, a developing La Niña is expected to persist through the winter season causing a warmer and drier season in our service area. Despite these predictions, Arkansas weather remains unpredictable, and Entergy Arkansas will be ready for any extreme weather that may affect our state.

Entergy Arkansas crews have performed a significant review of our preparedness and protections against extreme conditions. This includes developing a comprehensive plan to protect our generation, transmission and distribution systems from extreme cold. We have implemented unique readiness plans for each of our power generation resources that include insulating critical equipment and diligently testing protections based on historical operating experience. Our transmission team follows a specialized seasonal readiness program that includes inspection and maintenance of critical lines and their associated breakers, transformers and substation distribution feeders going to generation/natural gas facilities. Entergy Arkansas crews have inspected critical systems and infrastructure across the grid in advance of colder temperatures in order to maintain reliability and resiliency.

Our winter readiness work follows the recommendations of The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and is in compliance with their standards. In addition, Entergy Arkansas employees recently participated in a winter readiness exercise that included situational drills and tabletop discussions for training and awareness of lessons learned and best practices for winter storm response. In 2021, a winter storm brought sub-zero temperatures, ice accumulation and record snowfall totals across the southern part of the U.S.  While other states experienced challenges, the Arkansas Public Service Commission concluded that Entergy Arkansas and its grid “performed well from an operational perspective during the February 2021 event,” ably handling related outages and power restoration efforts.

Vegetation Management

• The risk of falling tree limbs and branches is a leading cause of power outages during winter weather. Entergy Arkansas is proactively identifying and mitigating problem areas by taking steps year-round to maintain and control vegetation across our service area. Crews have completed the annual clearing of right-of-way areas to minimize the impact of fallen trees or branches following a storm. Prior to storms impacting our area, vegetation crews perform pre-storm patrols of circuits to mitigate any imminent threats within the right of way. Our year-round storm preparations include our comprehensive vegetation management program and the targeted “ground to sky” vegetation trimming, which removes tree limbs that would typically have been above the power line. Our crews also use artificial intelligence and satellite imagery to help predict when trimming may be needed.

Prepare for cold weather by maximizing energy efficiency

When colder temperatures arrive in the state, heating systems will start running full blast, causing a spike in energy usage. However, staying warm and comfortable doesn’t have to come at the cost of high energy bills. By making a few simple changes around your home, you can improve its energy efficiency and keep costs down throughout the colder months.

Air leaks and inefficient HVAC systems can lead to an additional $400 in home energy costs each year. Rather than cranking up the thermostat as temperatures drop, try these affordable or even free tips to reduce your energy use and save money.

Keep heating costs low all season long by taking these tips to improve your home’s energy efficiency:

• Use solar energy: Open curtains on the south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat the home and close them at night to reduce the chill from cold windows.
• Insulate drafty windows: Use a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet on a frame or tape clear plastic film to the inside of window frames and make sure the plastic is sealed tightly to the frame to help reduce infiltration.
• Adjust the thermostat: When you are home and awake, set the thermostat as low as is comfortable, but when you are asleep or out of the house, turn the thermostat back to save as much as 10% a year on your heating and cooling bills.
• Find and seal leaks: Seal air leaks around utility cut-throughs for pipes and recessed lights in insulated ceilings, and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets.
• Maintain heating systems: Schedule routine service for home  and replace furnace and heat pump filters once a month or as needed.
• Reduce heat loss from the fireplace: Keep the fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning and check the seal on the fireplace flue damper and make it as snug as possible.

By following these simple steps, you can stay warm and comfortable all winter long while keeping your energy bills under control.

We also offer free comprehensive residential energy audits and rebates to help reduce the upfront cost of installing energy-efficient equipment. Visit entergy.com/energyefficiency for more information.

Bill management resources Entergy’s newly launched online  connects customers to bill management, energy efficiency and financial assistance resources. This new resource helps our customers explore simple ways they can lower their electricity use and costs.

Track your energy use 

Bill management tools like  empower our customers to set electricity usage alerts and monitor how much energy they use each day. Tracking electricity use over time can help customers identify habits that contribute to higher use and budget their monthly expenses. With their myAdvisor dashboard, customers have access to usage and cost details, bill history, bill projections and analyzer tools and more.

Entergy Arkansas encourages customers who may need help or resources to reach out by visiting our mobile appĚý´Ç°ůĚý.

About Entergy Arkansas
Entergy Arkansas, LLC provides electricity to approximately 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř, a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. For the latest news from Entergy Arkansas, visit the  and connect with @EntergyArk on social media.

Entergy Arkansas has completed phase one of a comprehensive reliability and resiliency project in Little Rock. The recently completed work includes upgrades to both the transmission and distribution infrastructure for the electrical lines that serve the downtown Little Rock area, which is home to more than 40,000 Entergy Arkansas customers. These upgrades will provide reliable energy supply that can be restored quicker in the case of an outage.

Legacy transmission structures near 8^th street and Woodrow have been replaced with steel structures with newer and stronger conductors installed. The adjacent distribution circuit has been upgraded and rerouted away from the transmission structures, which will not only improve reliability in the area, but will also enhance power restoration capabilities and improve safety and work practices for Entergy Arkansas line workers.

“This project represents an investment of both time and resources to improve reliability for customers in this area,” said Adam Effrein, vice president of power delivery for Entergy Arkansas. “These improvements will result in fewer overall outages and faster restoration times when an outage is inevitable.”

The recent work is part of an ongoing project to enhance the resiliency and reliability of the electrical systems in Little Rock. Future phases will extend the transmission upgrades from downtown all the way to West Little Rock. Infrastructure enhancements will include overhead transmission lines and substation equipment, improving efficiency and reliability for customers all across the city.

Approximately eight miles of high- and low-voltage power lines in total will be upgraded over the next few years. Additionally, Entergy Arkansas will upgrade line terminals, equipment and enhanced protection schemes at all substations in Little Rock’s central business district.

Entergy Arkansas is continually and steadily making significant investments in upgrading and strengthening our power generation, transmission, and distribution systems, including enhancements to how our facilities are designed, built, and maintained. With respect to our transmission and distribution systems in particular, we’ve significantly increased the wind standard to which new equipment is built.

“We’re always adapting our material and construction standards, which includes using stronger poles, fiberglass crossarms and improved configuration or placement of equipment,” said Effrein. “We’re not only replacing older or damaged assets with new ones, but we are also replacing them with equipment that is stronger and more resilient.”

Planned resiliency efforts include additional projects like this one in downtown Little Rock, more frequent inspection and maintenance, enhanced vegetation management, hardening and upgrading equipment, and other efforts that will help improve the resilience of our system while maintaining low-cost, reliable energy.

To learn more about Entergy Arkansas’ plans for reliability and resiliency throughout the state, visit our website here.

Little Rock, Ark.– It’s the most wonderful time of the year, filled with cozy gatherings, cherished traditions, and festive decorations. Whether you plan to set up a sparkling outdoor display or create a warm atmosphere indoors, Entergy Arkansas encourages customers to keep safety top of mind this holiday season.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, U.S. fire departments respond to an estimated average of 835 home structure fires per year caused by decorations, excluding trees. These incidents result in an annual average of 3 civilian fire deaths, 30 civilian fire injuries and $14 million in direct property damage. Nearly 20% of these decoration-related fires are caused by lamps or bulbs, while candles account for 11%.

To help keep the holiday season safe and joyful, Entergy Arkansas encourages customers to keep the following tips in mind when decorating for celebrations:

Indoor lighting:

• Position your tree safely: Place it in a stand with water and keep it away from heat sources like fireplaces. Check the water daily to prevent your tree from drying out.
• Inspect lights carefully: Discard any strands with frayed cords or cracked bulbs to avoid shock hazards.
• Choose energy-efficient LED lights: Cool-burning LED lights help you save on energy costs and stay safe.
• Avoid flammable decorations: Don’t use candles on or near the tree and choose non-flammable decor.
• Turn off lights when unattended: Always switch off lights when leaving the room or going to bed.

Outdoor lighting:

• Use outdoor-rated lights only: These lights are made to withstand weather conditions and keep your home safe.
• Plug into GFCI outlets: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets provide added protection from electrical shocks.
• Choose UL-listed lights: UL labels ensure that your lights are tested for outdoor safety.
• Keep connections dry: Use rubber gaskets to keep water out of sockets and keep lights off the ground by hanging them on stakes.
• Switch off outdoor lights when away: Save energy and enhance safety by turning off outdoor lighting when you’re not home or are going to sleep.

For more tips on how to practice lighting and decoration safety during the holiday season, visit the 

About Entergy Arkansas

Entergy Arkansas, LLC provides electricity to approximately 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř, a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. For the latest news from Entergy Arkansas, visit the  and connect with @EntergyArk on social media.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The start of cooler temperatures outside makes fall-lovers eager for coats, sweaters and all the seasonal fun that begins in October. This time of year can also bring opportunities for customers to tackle home improvement or landscaping projects. As fun and gratifying as these activities can be, no one wants them to result in an accident or injury. Entergy Arkansas has some helpful tips for staying safe this fall.

Stay safe outdoors

The Halloween season brings children the fun of wearing costumes, enjoying candy and attending fall festivals and carnivals. The offers tips to help children celebrate safely. Prepare to welcome trick-or-treaters to your home safely by checking outdoor lights and making sure walkways and steps are well-lighted and free of any tripping hazards. Any extension cords should be specifically designated for outdoor use. Use rubber gaskets in light sockets or hang sockets downward to keep water out and remember to turn outside lights and decorations off when you are away from home or asleep.  Help children with videos, activities and other resources.

Keep safety first with home projects

Fall is a great time to tidy up and prep your property for winter. When cleaning up fallen leaves and branches or trimming trees, always use caution and be aware of overhead lines. Position your ladder away from overhead wires, so trimmings will not fall onto power lines. If this happens, always assume downed wires are energized and call 1-800-ENTERGY for help.

If your fall spruce-up includes digging up flower beds, trees or shrubs, remember to call before you dig. Calling 811 before you dig will keep you safe and prevent disruption of utility services to your neighborhood.

When performing maintenance activities that require a ladder inside or out, be sure to wear proper footwear, position the ladder on a flat surface, and have someone nearby to spot you.

Daylight Saving Time ends November 3

When Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, Nov. 3, fewer hours of daylight will make it harder to see children going to and from the school bus in the mornings and evenings. When driving, avoid distractions and watch for children in the neighborhood. The offers additional tips for ensuring children arrive to and from school safely.

When setting your clocks to fall back an hour, take the time to check the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. All homes should contain a carbon monoxide detector to help identify the colorless and odorless gas that can cause serious illness or death.

Stay safe and warm indoors

Candles can add a warm ambience to an autumn evening, but remember it is never safe to leave candles burning unattended. A small sputter or an errant flame can cause a fire in an instant.

They are large consumers of energy and a fire hazard and should be kept at least three feet away from draperies, rugs and furniture. Additionally, homeowners who use a gas or electric furnace should schedule an appointment for service by a certified technician to make sure it is safe for operation and for greatest efficiency.

A wood-burning stove or fireplace can add warmth and coziness to a room but should also be used with caution and proper preparation. Have your chimney cleaned by a professional before the first fire is lit. Fallen leaves, animal nests and other debris can cause the smoke to vent into your home rather than outside and cause a fire.

Remember to replace dirty air filters inside and remove debris from the unit outside to ensure your HVAC unit works efficiently through all seasons.

Be ready for inclement weather

lasts through the end of November, so it is important to not let your guard down even when the weather begins to cool. Prepare now for severe weather that may come your way by

Save money year-round with our Customer Bill Toolkit

Entergy Arkansas’ has ways for customers to manage their energy usage and take more control of their electric bills. From programs to customized bill payment options, the toolkit can lead to bill savings for customers.

For more information, visit for the tools and resources you need to understand your bill, reduce your usage or look for assistance programs and services available to you.

About Entergy Arkansas

Entergy Arkansas, LLC provides electricity to approximately 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř, a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. For the latest news from Entergy Arkansas, visit the and connect with @EntergyArk on social media.