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Tackling Seasonal Energy Costs: Support for Maryland Families from Potomac Edison

As the seasons change, the fluctuation in temperatures often leads to changes in household energy usage. Potomac Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corporation, recognizes that as families try to maintain comfortable living conditions, their electricity consumption—and resulting bills—can rise significantly.

To provide relief, Potomac Edison encourages homeowners to explore a range of assistance programs that are designed to help manage these increased energy costs. In the face of unpredictable weather patterns, maintaining financial control should not be a burden for Maryland families.

Understanding the Assistance Programs

President of FirstEnergy West Virginia and Maryland, Jim Myers, emphasized the company's commitment to support Maryland customers facing higher energy bills. The following programs are available:

1. Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP): This program provides grants to customers dealing with difficulties in paying their electric bills or those who have lost service due to unpaid dues. MEAP recipients may be eligible for crisis assistance of up to $600.

2. Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP): This initiative offers financial support to assist customers in paying a portion of their electric bills, ensuring that essential services remain accessible.

3. EUSP Arrearage Retirement Assistance: For those with overdue bills, this forgiveness program helps eliminate up to $2,000 in past due amounts, offering families a fresh start.

4. Utility Service Protection Program (USPP): This program is particularly essential during the heating season, protecting eligible customers from utility disconnections if circumstances arise.

5. Community Energy Fund (CEF): For immediate need-based support, this program aims to help customers make emergency electric bill payments when they find themselves in a difficult position.

6. EmPOWER Low Income Energy Efficiency Program (LIEEP): Eligible customers can have their homes evaluated for energy efficiency, receiving free audits and certain essential energy-saving improvements to minimize future bills.

7. 2-1-1 Helpline: Available around the clock, this information service connects customers with local programs that address various needs, including utility bill assistance.

Steps Toward Relief

Potomac Edison urges customers to be proactive in seeking assistance, reiterating that nobody should feel overwhelmed by increasing energy costs. Those in need of temporary aid or long-term support are encouraged to reach out without delay. The online portal, firstenergycorp.com/billassist, offers comprehensive information on these assistance and payment options.

Currently, Potomac Edison serves approximately 285,000 customers across seven counties in Maryland and an additional 155,000 customers in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.

For additional updates and support, customers can connect with Potomac Edison through their website or follow them on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook.

FirstEnergy remains dedicated to integrity, operational excellence, and the reliable delivery of services, operating across multiple states including Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland, and New York. Their electric distribution companies, one of the largest of their kind in the nation, strive to serve their customers effectively every day.

Marylanders are urged to take advantage of the assistance programs available, ensuring they stay safe and comfortable during colder seasons without the fear of overwhelming energy bills.