Atlantic City Electric is encouraging residential customers to apply for energy assistance and take advantage of the funding available through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which began accepting applications for the current program year on Oct. 1.
LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps limited income households with their home energy bills. Customers should not wait for winter heating bills to arrive before applying for help as LIHEAP is a first come, first served program that is only available until money runs out.
Last year, Atlantic City Electric worked closely with community partners to help 41,578 customers secure $33.1 million in support that was applied directly to their energy bills.
“As temperatures start to drop, we know energy bills will increase as we start to warm our homes and businesses,” said Morlon Bell-Izzard, senior vice president and chief customer officer for Pepco Holdings, which includes Atlantic City Electric. “We urge customers to take advantage of programs like LIHEAP now, before winter bills hit, and to contact us if they need help.”
LIHEAP provides grants in varying amounts of up to $1,200 with no payback required, based on a household’s income, type of fuel and type of dwelling. Homeowners, renters, roomers and subsidized housing tenants may be eligible. Customers do not have to be behind on their bills to receive a grant.
South Jersey customers can apply for LIHEAP energy assistance through the Department of Community Affairs website, or by calling 800-510-3102. Residents also can access the Department of Community Affairs self-screening tool to help determine what energy assistance benefits they may qualify for.
Customers having problems paying their bill can contact Atlantic City Electric at 800-642-3780 to discuss payment arrangements or visit atlanticcityelectric.com/EnergyAssistance to learn more about energy assistance options.
