Energy assistance funds open for Delmarva Power customers
Winter brings colder temperatures that lead to increased energy use and higher energy bills. Delmarva Power reminds customers to take advantage of billing assistance programs, including the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, a federally funded program that helps limited-income households with their home energy bills. Customers should not wait for winter heating bills to arrive before applying for help – LIHEAP is a first-come, first-served program, and assistance is only available until funding runs out.
LIHEAP provides grants in varying amounts (up to $2,506 in Delaware), with no payback required, based on a household's income, type of fuel and type of dwelling. Homeowners, renters, roomers and subsidized housing tenants may be eligible. Customers do not have to be behind on their bills to receive a grant.
Delaware customers can review eligibility requirements and apply for LIHEAP energy assistance by visiting dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dssc/liheap.html or calling 302-856-6310 in Sussex County.
“With winter weather officially here, customers should prepare for potential spikes in energy bills as we warm our homes and businesses,” said Morlon Bell-Izzard, senior vice president of customer operations and chief customer officer for Pepco Holdings, which includes Delmarva Power. “We understand that rising energy costs and inflation continue to impact our customers, and the upcoming holiday season brings additional pressures. We are here to help and remain committed to supporting those facing difficulties through payment plans and energy assistance programs.”
If customers do not meet LIHEAP requirements and are having difficulty paying their energy bills, Delmarva Power Customer Care is also available to help, offering flexible payment arrangements through tailored payment plans, extending payment periods for balances, connecting customers with energy assistance funds, and arranging budget billing, which averages payments over a 12-month period to avoid seasonal spikes and provide a consistent monthly bill.
For more information, Delmarva Power customers can call 800-375-7117 or go to delmarva.com/EnergyAssistance.
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 for assistance with utilities and other necessities. To learn more online, go to delaware211.org.
Delmarva Power also works with the Salvation Army and other local organizations to offer energy assistance to low-income customers. The fund allows for customers to pay exactly $1 over their monthly Delmarva Power bill, which goes to the associated nonprofit organization in their community. Delmarva Power matches contributions with $1 for every $3 that is collected, up to $70,000.
