PIERRE, S.D. (WNAX) – The cost of electricity can be a financial problem, especially for rural residents.

Heidi Kolbeck-Urlacher with the Center for Rural Affairs says there are more lower income people in small towns and rural areas.

Kolbeck-Urlacher says that’s why its important to look for energy efficiency.

Kolbeck-Urlacher says many utilities and rural co-ops have rebate programs to help pay for installing energy efficient appliances.

Kolbeck-Urlacher says more than 7,400 people in South Dakota are employed in energy efficiency related jobs.