Prepare Now for Winter Energy Costs

Don't wait until you get your first winter energy bill—Prepare Now for higher energy costs. Reducing your energy use during cold winter months can help you reduce your energy bills.

How Can You Prepare Now?

Did you know that every degree you raise or lower your thermostat setting can result in a difference of up to 3% in energy costs?

There are lots of other tips and tricks to help your household conserve energy and lower your energy bills during winter months. Here's just a few:

• Check your electric and natural gas bills and supplier contracts for opportunities to save.
• Consider shopping around for electric and natural gas service.
• Look into programs like budget billing that help low-income customers maintain service.
• Program your thermostat to the temperature automatically during the times you're sleeping or not at home.
• Install insulated doors and energy-efficient windows to reduce air leaks.
• Lower your water heater temperature just a bit to 120°F.

Fact Sheets and Brochures

Prepare Now Fact Sheet - Spanish Version - Easy ways to save energy and money this winter.

Home Heating Safety Tips - Information on how to safely heat your home.

Ways to Save Energy - Spanish Version - Tips on ways to save energy around the house.

Energy Assistance Programs - Spanish Version - Information on where help is available.

Responsible Utility Consumer Protection Act (Chapter 14) Fact Sheet - Spanish Version - Explanation of the changes to the rules that apply to cash deposits; reconnection of service; termination of service; payment arrangements and the filing of termination complaints by electric, gas and water consumers.

Utility CEO Prepare Now Letters

On December 4, 2023, the PUC sent a letter signed by all five PUC Commissioners to electric and natural gas utilities under the PUCs jurisdiction asking the utilities to join the Commission in reaching out and educating consumers to #CallUtilitiesNow. The letter contained specific suggestions as to how the utilities can help and urged the utilities to take extra steps to help consumers prepare for the higher costs of winter heating. The utilities were asked to respond with any plans they will be putting into place. 

Letter - The PUC Commissioners' letter to Utility CEOs concerning this winter's Prepare Now Campaign.

Letter to PA Congressional Delegation to Release LIHEAP Funding

On March 4, 2024, the PUC sent a letter signed by all five PUC Commissioners to members of the Pennsylvania Congressional Delegation to take necessary and swift action to ensure the remaining Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds for 2023-24 become available to help low-income families in the state.

• Letter – The PUC Commissioner’s letter to the Pennsylvania Congressional Delegation concerning LIHEAP funding.