Nonprofits reminded of resources to assist energy customers

In a time when the COVID-19 pandemic has placed economic burdens on many residents and businesses across the region, Delmarva Power hosted a virtual energy assistance summit.

The event provided a forum for nonprofits and other community partners to hear directly from state and industry leaders, and energy assistance experts about available resources to support Delaware and Maryland energy customers with their bills. The collaborative summit delivered much-needed information to organizations that work to connect local residents facing hardships with energy assistance options.

“In the past year, we’ve been reminded again and again of the importance of working together,” said Gary Stockbridge, Delmarva Power region president. “Our community partners are on the front lines of connecting our customers with available energy assistance, and their support is more important than ever. As we navigate the coming months and the increasing energy use that summer brings, we are committed to doing everything we can to help customers manage their energy usage and provide the support they need through payment arrangements, budget billing and other resources.”

"Energy assistance programs are essential for mitigating inequity in energy access. This year has been tremendously difficult for everyone in the community, especially the vulnerable population,” said Haly Laasme-McQuilkin, LIHEAP administrator, Department of Health and Social Services, Division of State Service Centers. “However, in Delaware there has always been an outstanding partnership between utility companies and community agencies, even when times have been challenging. In my position, I have seen how valuable strong, coordinated partnerships are in reaching low-income customers who sometimes are not aware of the programs, services and benefits available to them. I am grateful for the generosity and commitment we have in our utility partners, as well as that mirrored in our extraordinary state of neighbors during these unprecedented times.”

Delmarva Power is reminding customers who may be financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to contact their energy providers now to establish payment arrangements and get connected to customer assistance programs that can help get their accounts up to date. For more information on assistance and resources from Delmarva Power, go to delmarva.com/help.

Delmarva Power is committed to helping customers manage their energy needs and works as a proactive partner in raising awareness about the many important energy assistance opportunities available through the company. During the 2020 program year, Delmarva Power’s efforts helped more than 21,000 customers secure more than $19 million in energy assistance.