ALBANY, N.Y. — More than eight million metered electric and gas customers in New York state could soon see a credit on their utility bills.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced Thursday that the New York State Public Service Commission adopted a $200 million New York State energy bill credit that will be distributed by the large electric and gas utilities to customers.
“Every New Yorker deserves affordable and clean energy, which is why I fought to secure additional funds to provide financial relief for hardworking families,” Governor Hochul said. “Energy affordability continues to be a top priority in my clean energy agenda and this utility bill credit is just one of many actions New York is taking to reduce costs for our most vulnerable New Yorkers.”
The program was proposed by the Energy Affordability Policy working group. This is a one-time credit using state funds to provide relief to more than eight million metered electric and gas customers. The credit will be added to customer accounts approximately 45 days after the utility companies receive the funds from the state.
PSC Chair Rory M. Christian said, “We applaud Governor Hochul for continuing to address the high cost of utility bills in New York State head-on. While global commodity price volatility and utility delivery rate requests for increases, the Governor's new and innovative energy affordability initiatives are coming at exactly the right time."
This program is in addition to other programs the state oversees to help residents afford gas and electric.
Here's what's available:
- Apply for HEAP: As of November 1, applications were being accepted for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) which can provide up to $976 to eligible homeowners and renters depending on income, household size, and how they heat their home (e.g., family of four with a maximum monthly gross income of $5,838 can qualify). For more information visit NYS HEAP.
- Energy Affordability Program/Low Income Bill Discount Program: This program provides income-eligible consumers with a discount on their monthly electric and/or gas bills, as well as other benefits, depending on the characteristics of the particular utility's program. New Yorkers can be enrolled automatically if they receive benefits from a government assistance program. For more information, they should visit their utility website or links can be found at DPS Winter Preparedness.
- Community-based Service Programs: Service organizations and local community agencies provide financial aid, counseling services, and assistance with utility emergencies. New Yorkers can contact organizations like the American Red Cross (800-733-2767), Salvation Army (800-728-7825), and United Way (2-1-1 or 888-774-7633) to learn more.
- Receive a customized list of energy-related assistance in the State: New York Energy Advisor can help income-eligible New Yorkers locate programs that help them spend less on energy and create healthier and more comfortable spaces. With New York Energy Advisor, consumers answer simple questions and get connected with energy-saving offers in New York State. Sponsored by NYSERDA and utilities, qualified New Yorkers can get help paying utility bills, receive special offers on heating assistance, and more.
- EmPower+: Income-eligible households can receive a home energy assessment and no-cost energy efficiency upgrades through the EmPower+ program, administered by NYSERDA. Get more information about the program, including information on how to apply at https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/All-Programs/EmPower-New-York-Program.
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Administered by New York State Homes and Community Renewal, WAP provides income-eligible households with no-cost weatherization services. Rental properties can also be served, though there are additional requirements for owners of rental properties. For more information on WAP, including how to apply, visit https://hcr.ny.gov/weatherization-applicants.
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