PITTSFIELD – Sebasticook Valley Federal Credit Union announced Wednesday that it is bringing back its 0% Energy Loan Program.

The program allows current and new members to borrow up to $3,000 to cover the cost of home heating for this winter, an increase of $1,000 from last year. The credit union offers members 0 percent APR financing, payable over a 12-month term. Qualifying members will receive a check made payable to their fuel provider.

“Times are tough for everyone right now, so we are especially pleased that we can offer our members a unique program that can truly help them breathe a little easier,” said Jim Lemieux, president of Sebasticook Valley Federal Credit Union. “Many homeowners are on very strict budgets in these precarious economic times, and now is the perfect time for them to lock in a fixed cost for winter heating oil.”

Applications are available at both the Pittsfield and Newport SVFCU branches, as well as online at www.svfcume.com.