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PSEG Long Island Offers Ongoing Financial Support

As the heating season draws to a close, many residents of Long Island face the challenge of managing their utility bills amidst changing economic conditions. PSEG Long Island is stepping in with reminders about the ongoing financial assistance available for eligible customers struggling with their electric bills.

Currently, approximately 40,000 residential customers benefit from PSEG's Home Assistance Program, which provides a monthly discount of $45 for participants enrolled in certain state or federal assistance programs. This initiative aims to ease the financial burdens of families dealing with heating costs as winter transitions into spring.

Brigitte Wynn, the Director of Revenue Operations at PSEG Long Island, emphasizes the company's commitment to support customers facing payment difficulties. They are proactively reaching out through community meetings, workshops at local libraries, and informational campaigns to ensure that eligible customers are aware of the resources available to them. Individuals can apply for assistance year-round by contacting PSEG Long Island’s dedicated helpline at 631-755-3407 or visiting their website for more details.

Understanding the Financial Assistance Programs

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is one of the state’s main financial assistance initiatives designed to help homeowners and renters with heating costs. Eligibility is based on factors such as household income, family size, and heating methods. For instance, a family of four can have a gross monthly income up to $6,390 and still qualify for heating benefits.

Moreover, the Emergency HEAP component targets immediate energy needs, helping low- to moderate-income households avoid heating disconnection or to obtain fuel when supply runs low. If customers find themselves in such situations, they can apply for assistance through their local Department of Social Services office.

Additional Aid and Energy Efficiency Programs

PSEG Long Island also promotes its Residential Energy Affordability Partnership (REAP), a no-cost program that empowers eligible customers through energy-saving initiatives, including a free home energy audit and the installation of energy-efficient measures. More details about REAP can be found on their website.

The company also encourages customers to actively reduce their utility bills by adopting energy-efficient practices, such as:

• - Weatherproofing: Sealing windows and doors to prevent heat loss.
• - Utilizing Ceiling Fans: Adjusting fan settings to efficiently circulate warm air downwards during colder months.
• - Thermostat Management: Lowering the thermostat by just one degree can lead to significant savings. Using programmable thermostats further optimizes heating and cooling schedules, with potential annual savings of around $100.
• - Switching to LED Bulbs: Replacing incandescent bulbs with LED alternatives can decrease energy usage by nearly 90%.

By incorporating energy-saving devices, like motion sensors and timers, households can minimize unnecessary electricity waste and control usage more effectively. Customers who take advantage of PSEG’s energy-saving discounts can further enhance their savings, helping them manage their bills during the transitions between seasons.

Stay Informed and Seek Assistance

PSEG Long Island urges all customers who are struggling financially to reach out and discuss options tailored to their unique situations. The organization is committed to working with residents, ensuring they are informed about state and local programs that can assist during tough times.

For further details on the programs and ongoing financial assistance opportunities, customers can visit PSEG Long Island's official website. By taking proactive steps, residents can ensure both their comfort and financial well-being as they move beyond the heating season.