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What Energy Assistance Options Are Available?

If you are facing challenges paying your energy bill, don’t worry. You have options. We know that COVID-19 has impacted all our customers and put a strain on the local economy. Below are some energy assistance options offered through us and our community partners.

Payment Arrangements & Due Date Extensions

If you’re facing challenges, your first step should be to apply for payment arrangements or to receive a due date extension. We’re here to work with you and make arrangements that fit your current situation. You can apply directly through My Account or call us at 202-833-7500.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

After setting up payment arrangements, see if you are eligible for assistance through the LIHEAP program, which can provide you with more than $1,000 in grant support—depending on your household’s income size, type of fuel and type of dwelling—with no pay back required. Maryland residents can apply for assistance online through Department of Human Services website, or by calling the Office of Home Energy Programs at 1-800-332-6347. District of Columbia residents can apply for assistance and get more information on benefits at the District’s Department of Energy and Environment website.

Additional Energy Assistance for Households with Limited Incomes

District of Columbia Energy Assistance

The District of Columbia LIHEAP application period runs from October 1 – September 30. Once you have applied, check to see what additional programs are available to you.

  • The Utility Discount Program (UDP) assists low-income District residents reduce their utility costs. Eligible customers may receive a discount of up to $475 per year on their electric bill ($300 per year if non-electric heat).  District residents can visit the Department of Energy and the Environment website at https://doee.dc.gov/udp to apply online.
  • The Greater Washington Urban League provides up to $500 in assistance to eligible customers facing disconnection. Customers can call 202-265-8200 or visit www.gwul.org.

In addition to these programs, the Arrearage Management Program (AMP) allows qualifying Pepco customers in the District of Columbia the option of reducing or eliminating outstanding balances on residential accounts. To be eligible to participate in AMP, you must:

  • Be a Pepco customer participating in our Residential Aid Discount program.
  • Have a minimum balance of $300 or more that is at least 60 days past due.

For further information about the AMP program, please contact Pepco at 202-496-5830 or e-mail EnergyAssistanceMailbox@pepco.com

Maryland Energy Assistance

The Maryland LIHEAP (MEAP) application period runs from July 1 – June 30. Once you have applied, check to see what additional programs are available to you.

  • The Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP) helps eligible customers pay for a portion of their current electric bill. The Arrearage Retirement Assistance (ARA) program helps customers with large, past due electric and gas bills. If eligible, customers may receive forgiveness of up to $2,000 towards their past due bill. The Utility Service Protection Program (USPP) is designed to help low-income families during the heating season. Information regarding these programs can be found on the Maryland Department of Human Services Office of Home Energy Programs website or by calling 1-800-332-6347.
  • Income eligible Montgomery County residents can receive energy assistance from Interfaith Works by calling 301-762-8682.

For more information on available energy assistance options and other resources, visit pepco.com/help.