As temperatures rise and living expenses continue to climb, Pepco is promoting several energy assistance programs designed to help customers manage their utility bills during the challenging summer months.
The utility company’s flagship relief program offers eligible customers up to $300 through the Pepco Customer Relief Fund, which is administered by the Salvation Army. The program targets limited- and moderate-income customers who meet specific eligibility requirements, with approved grants credited directly to customers’ Pepco accounts.
District of Columbia residents can apply at pepco.com/ReliefDC, while Maryland customers can access the program at pepco.com/ReliefMD.
Maryland Programs Expand Coverage
Maryland residents have additional options through the Maryland Energy Assistance Program, also known as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which began its new funding year in July. The federally funded LIHEAP provides eligible households with one-time grants up to $750 with no repayment required.
Unlike many assistance programs, LIHEAP doesn’t require customers to be behind on their bills to qualify. However, the program operates on a first-come, first-served basis and continues only until funding is exhausted.
Homeowners, renters, roomers and subsidized housing tenants may all be eligible for LIHEAP assistance. Applicants must provide information about household income, fuel type and dwelling type.
Maryland customers can apply through the Department of Human Services website or by calling the Maryland Department of Human Services Office of Home Energy Programs at 1-800-332-6347.
District Programs Face Funding Challenges
While LIHEAP funding has been exhausted in the District of Columbia, residents still have access to other assistance programs.
The Residential Aid Discount program provides eligible customers with monthly credits for distribution charges through the Residential Aid Credit. District residents can check their eligibility on the D.C. Department of Energy and Environment website.
Additionally, the D.C. Arrearage Management Program offers assistance to current or recent Pepco customers who participate in the RAD program and have a minimum balance of $300 that is at least 60 days past due. The program provides monthly account credits for one year.
Customers seeking more information about available programs can visit Pepco’s bill support page at pepco.com/BillSupport or use the Assistance Finder tool at pepco.com/AssistanceFinder to identify programs that best fit their needs.
Additional information about Pepco is available at The Source, the company’s online newsroom.