Energy assistance programs help pay bills over hot summer months

WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — Pepco is reminding its customers about energy assistance programs this summer.

High temperatures can lead to higher electricity bills if you have your air conditioning turned up. If these bills are putting a strain on your wallet, there are programs in the DMV that can help you make ends meet.

Pepco’s Customer Relief Fund, which is administered by the Salvation Army, gives eligible customers up to $300 in relief.

In order to qualify for the fund, you must be an active residential customer and have a balance of at least $250 that is 60 days or more past due. You must also be part of a household that is either limited income or moderate income.

You can find out more about the Customer Relief Fund and apply on Pepco’s website — Maryland customers can click here, and D.C. customers can click here.

Maryland residents may also be eligible for a federal assistance program — the Maryland Energy Assistance Program, also known as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Pepco said that the program just kicked off its new funding year in July.

This program gives eligible customers a one-time grant of up to $750 that customers do not have to repay. You also do not have to be behind on your bills to receive assistance from LIHEAP. This program is available to homeowners, renters, roomers and subsidized housing tenants.

This program is first-come, first-served and lasts until federal funding runs out. When applying, you will have to provide your household income, type of fuel and type of home.

In order to apply, Maryland residents should visit the Department of Human Services website or call 1-800-332-6347.

D.C.’s LIHEAP funding is exhausted, but it offers other assistance options for its residents.

Residential Aid Discount (RAD) is a program that gives eligible customers a monthly credit for distribution charges. You can check your eligibility by going to the DC Department of Energy and the Environment’s website.

You can find out about more energy assistance programs and tips on how to save on Pepco’s website.