National Oil Heat Research Alliance

The United States Congress recently passed legislation to create the National Oil Heat Research Alliance (NORA). NORA is what is known as a "check-off program" for oil heat. It is similar to check-off programs that exist for products as diverse as beef, eggs, milk and cotton.

Check-off programs require federal legislation and industry approval. NORA was recently passed by Congress and approved in an industry-wide referendum. It will provide between $15 million and $20 million in funds on an annual basis. These funds will be used for oil heat research and development and industry promotion. Over time, the existence of NORA should provide significant benefits for heating oil consumers in areas such as new technologies, improved efficiencies and price stability.

The NORA Legislation became effective on March l, 2001.