Communication With Customers Commitment to Communities service area. We also understand that the quality of life in our region is closely linked to the health of the environment. For this reason, Con Edison is committed to policies that respect and protect the environment. Con Edison has dedicated significant resources to develop technologies that make doing business with us easier. Both Con Edison of New York and O&R have successfully invested in initiatives that provide our customers with more options and choices, rang- ing from our Direct Payment Plan to online payment options. In 2003, as the result of a major effort to increase the number of customers using such paperless programs, we processed more than five million payments electronically. Together, our companies’ retail access programs are the largest in New York State. More than 28 percent of Con Edison of New York’s electric peak load is served by alternate energy sup- pliers. At O&R, more than 29 percent of electric customers and more than 33 percent of gas customers have elected to purchase their electricity and gas from alternate energy suppliers. Con Edison’s commitment to the neighborhoods, boroughs, towns, and cities we serve includes a long-stand- ing tradition of supporting educational, cultural, and civic organizations that make our communities stronger and more vibrant. This year, as in past years, the company’s strategic partner- ships were furthered by the energy and enthusiasm of the many employees who served as volunteers. Our strategic partnerships in 2003 included the Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS), a not-for-profit organi- zation that helps people achieve first- time homeownership and then improve their homes and neighborhoods. With a grant from Con Edison, NHS spon- sored a home maintenance training program, which provided new home- owners with basic home repair and safety skills. Another key partnership, this one with the Asian American Business Development Corporation, promoted tourism in New York City’s Chinatown. Con Edison supported the creation of The New York City Chinatown Travel Guide and assisted in promoting it throughout the metropolitan New York City area. Con Edison designed and launched www.conEd.com/kids,  a Web site that helps children explore  the world of energy. Working with the New York City Department of Education, we are using this We site to help educate a new generation of energy consumers about the importance  of conservation and other energy-r elated  issues. Aimee Boden, Executive Director, Randall’ Island Sports Foundation As the Kids Island Club’s natur partner, Con Edison demonstrates its active engagement with the envir onment. The par tnership enables us to develop science and environ- mental pr ograms with schools and to offer students the opportu- nity to explor e the natural world. 12 Con Edison Annual Report 2003