WASHINGTON, D.C. - Gov. John Lynch> '> s director of energy and planning, Mary Ann Manoogian, today addressed a Congressional committee about the need for increased federal fuel assistance this winter.

Manoogian addressed the Congressional Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality, focusing on the impacts of high-energy costs on consumers.

This winter's projected price increases are on top of significant price increases last winter, Manoogian told the committee. New Hampshire residents have seen a cost increase of 105 percent for home heating oil between 2003 and 2005.

"Consumers have had no respite from rising energy costs." Manoogian said. "Energy officials are legitimately concerned that our most vulnerable citizens, including the elderly and disabled will be at far greater risk this winter.

"Additionally, the increased costs last winter. coupled with high gasoline costs, have many middle income families concerned that when this winter is over, they will have fallen even further behind on their energy bills," Manoogian said.

Manoogian, also testifying on behalf of the National Association of State Energy Officials and the National Energy Assistance Directors Association repeated Governor Lynch's call for timely and adequate funding for the Low Income Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Last year in New Hampshire, Community Action Agencies (CAPS) processed 36,000 requests for heating assistance through the end of April. This year New Hampshire CAPS have already processed over 20,000.

Gov. Lynch said, "I cannot underscore enough the need for LIHEAP assistance. I do not want to see families in New Hampshire, or anywhere in the country, forced to choose between heating their homes and other essentials. It is crucial that we receive funds immediately and I am pleased that my Director of Energy and Planning has been able to deliver that message directly to Washington."