Shorter days and colder temperatures mean higher energy bills. And Delmarva Power reminds customers struggling to pay them that help is available.
Delmarva Power points out that there are millions of dollars available to make it easier for low-income households to handle their bills.
“What we’re hoping to do is inform and educate our customers on the many programs available to them when struggling to pay their energy bills. Some of those programs, simply for Delaware customers include LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program), which provides customers with up to a $1,000 in grant support per customer,” said Delmarva Power spokesman Timothy Stokes.
He notes there is a threshold of eligibility for LIHEAP, “Eligibility differs by state based on a customers’ annual household income and size. So a customers’ annual household income can’t exceed 200% of the federal poverty income in Delaware.”
Stokes adds that homeowners, renters, roomers and subsidized housing tenants can all apply to the LIHEAP program at the Department of Health and Social Services’ website.
And there are other programs to help with energy bills. Here's the information for customers who need help:
- Good Neighbor Energy Fund
Delmarva Power partners with the Salvation Army to offer energy assistance to customers struggling to pay their winter energy bills through the Good Neighbor Energy Fund. In addition to the donations received by customers, Delmarva Power matches $1 for every $3 received, up to $70,000 annually. For eligibility, Delaware customers can call the Salvation Army at 302-472-0750.
- Gift of Energy
Through Delmarva Power’s Gift of Energy program, anyone can make a payment towards a friend or family member’s energy bill. The gift will appear on a future bill as a credit to the recipient's account.
- Other Delaware Programs
Additional assistance for customers in Delaware is available through Delaware 211 (DE 211). By dialing 2-1-1, customers can be referred to local agencies and services that can assist with energy bills and other necessities. More information is available at delaware211.org.
Stokes says Delmarva Power works with state, federal and non-profit partners to connect customers with grants and programs, “In general, customers tend to get behind due to the high use of energy usage during the winter weather, as well as the summer weather. And so one thing that we try to stress with each customer is that for them to always remember that Delmarva Power is always willing to work with them if they are having difficulty paying their bills.”
