PSEG Long Island Provides Winter Heating Assistance
As the chill of winter approaches, many households start to brace for the burden of heating costs. Recognizing the financial strain this season can impose, PSEG Long Island is proactively hosting a series of community events aimed at assisting its customers. These events not only promote awareness about various assistance programs but also offer resources to help families manage their heating expenses during these challenging times.
Community Engagement Initiatives
PSEG Long Island has scheduled three key community events designed for customer engagement and support:
1.
November 3: Stop & Shop Parking Lot, 999 Montauk Highway, Shirley, 1 - 5:30 PM. The first 200 attendees will receive fresh produce courtesy of Long Island Cares.
2.
November 6: UBS Arena Parking Lot, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, 1 - 5:30 PM. Again, the first 200 visitors will receive fresh produce.
3.
November 13: Key Food Parking Lot, 20-20 New Haven Blvd, Far Rockaway, NY 1 - 5:30 PM.
These events aim to forge connections between customers and various organizations that offer financial assistance. Attendees can interact directly with community service providers, and many will distribute complimentary items such as LED light bulbs, which can help in reducing energy bills.
Available Resources for Customers
The stress of paying utility bills can be overwhelming, particularly during winter months. PSEG Long Island is committed to supporting customers struggling financially. The company encourages anyone facing difficulties with their bills to reach out for assistance. Their website, combined with the PSEG Long Island mobile app, provides customers access to various resources to help them find solutions tailored to their specific circumstances.
Director of Revenue Operations, Brigitte Wynn, stated, “Although we do not supply natural gas or heating oil, we understand the economic uncertainties many are experiencing this season. It is crucial for us that customers have access to the resources they need to keep their homes warm.”
Financial Assistance Programs
Various state and federal support programs are in place for qualifying customers. One such program is the
Residential Energy Affordability Partnership (REAP), where a technician conducts a free home energy survey and installs energy-saving measures. To learn more or apply, visit the PSEG Long Island website.
The
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is another offering, which can assist income-eligible homeowners and renters with heating fuel grants. The application for this benefit opens soon, giving many families crucial support. The
Emergency HEAP program is also set to launch at the beginning of January, providing a safety net during urgent situations.
Tips for Reducing Heating Bills
In addition to financial programs, PSEG Long Island encourages its customers to implement simple strategies to save on heating costs:
- - Seal windows and doors: Weather stripping or caulking can prevent drafts, reducing the energy needed to maintain warmth.
- - Adjust thermostat settings: Lowering the thermostat by just one degree can make a difference. Gradual adjustments lead to significant savings.
- - Use ceiling fans wisely: Setting them to rotate clockwise can help push warm air down to floor level, optimizing warmth in rooms.
- - Invest in programmable thermostats: These devices can lead to annual savings by allowing better management of heating schedules.
- - Transition to energy-efficient lighting: Replacing incandescent bulbs with LEDs can reduce electricity usage significantly.
Closing Thoughts
By hosting community events and providing valuable information and assistance, PSEG Long Island reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that no family has to face the winter season in financial distress. The range of programs available and practical tips for reducing energy consumption empower customers to take control of their heating costs. For more information on assistance programs and energy-saving strategies, customers can visit
PSEG Long Island's website.
Final Note
PSEG Long Island operates under a long-term contract with the Long Island Power Authority and is committed to providing essential utility services to its community. As winter settles in, know that resources and support are available to help navigate through the cold successfully.