Press Release

PUC Vice Chairman Joins Rally to Kick Off Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program for Winter Energy Prices

Published on 11/12/2008

Filed under: Electric Gas

PITTSBURGH – Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission Vice Chairman Tyrone J. Christy today joined western Pennsylvania natural gas utilities and Pittsburgh Steeler Hall of Famer Franco Harris to kick off the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which is open for applications.  

“The PUC knows the winter months are fast upon us.  We want to make sure that all Pennsylvanians know that eligibility for the LIHEAP program has changed and how to apply for the funding.  Even if you were not eligible in prior years, under the new guidelines, you may be now.  LIHEAP is such an important program because it helps to keep Pennsylvanians safe and warm during the fall and winter months,” Vice Chairman Christy said. 

LIHEAP is part of the PUC’s “Prepare Now” campaign, which is in its sixth year, to help educate consumers to prepare now for the high costs of winter heating.  LIHEAP helps low-income individuals pay their home heating bills through energy assistance grants.  The program opened for applications on Nov. 3 and is scheduled to close March 31, 2009.  However, the length of the program may change depending on availability of funds and other factors. 

On Oct. 14, Gov. Edward G. Rendell announced that with the new allocation of federal funds, eligibility for LIHEAP was expanded from 150 percent of federal poverty guidelines to approximately 210 percent.  For the 2008-09 season, a family of four with an annual income of up to $44,443 may qualify.  Consumers who were not eligible in the past may be this year and are encouraged to check their eligibility again. 

Applications for LIHEAP are available at county assistance offices, local utility companies and community service agencies, such as Area Agencies on Aging and community action agencies or by visiting the Department of Public Welfare’s web site at http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/ServicesPrograms/LIHEAP/.

The PUC’s message is simple: “Prepare Now” for higher energy costs this winter. Learn about changes in the law related to utility shut-offs and know your rights. Save money by learning how to conserve energy. Heat your home safely. Explore budget billing options. Look into programs that help low-income customers restore and maintain service. Visit www.puc.state.pa.us, and click on “Prepare Now” or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380. The PUC also is actively participating in Gov. Rendell’s third annual Stay Warm PA campaign – “Turn Down. Seal Off. Save Up.” Visit www.turnsealsave.org for more information.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as responsible stewards of competition.

For recent news releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our Internet homepage at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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