#United States #Uniondale #PSEG Long Island #HEAP #Household Assistance

PSEG Long Island's Ongoing Support for Customers After Heating Season Ends

As the heating season draws to a close, PSEG Long Island is highlighting the various financial assistance options available for customers facing challenges with their electricity bills. The company encourages customers to take advantage of the financial support programs as funding from New York State is gradually being depleted.

PSEG Long Island has already enrolled nearly 40,000 households in its Household Assistance Program, which provides eligible customers with a monthly discount of $45 on their electric bills. This discount is available throughout the year, making it easier for customers to manage their expenses.

How to Access Assistance

Customers in need of assistance can call PSEG Long Island's Advocacy Hotline at 631-755-3407 for help with the application process. PSEG Long Island is committed to supporting customers, especially those who are struggling to stay on top of their electric bills. In addition to outreach efforts, including presence at community events and assistance through partner organizations, PSEG Long Island is dedicated to ensuring all eligible customers are aware of and can access the Household Assistance Program.

In addition to the Household Assistance Program, PSEG Long Island offers the Residential Energy Affordability Partnership (REAP) for eligible customers to enhance energy savings. This initiative includes free home energy surveys and installations of energy-saving measures to help customers lower their bills.

State and Federal Assistance

As customers navigate energy expenses, it is crucial to understand the broader assistance available through state programs. New York's Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is designed to offer heating fuel grants to eligible individuals based on income, household size, and heating type. Generally, a family of four can qualify for benefits with a maximum gross monthly income of $6,390.

Moreover, the emergency segment of HEAP delivers immediate grants for low- and middle-income New Yorkers who may be at risk of having their heat disconnected or are running low on their heating supply. This emergency assistance is readily available, providing vital support in urgent situations, and residing customers can apply through their local Department of Social Services.

Additionally, for low-income households without heating, the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance provides benefits for the repair or replacement of critical heating equipment. Homeowners can apply for up to $4,000 for repairs or up to $8,000 for replacements of furnaces or boilers.

Efficient Usage Saves Money

Reducing electricity bills is achievable through energy-efficient practices. PSEG Long Island suggests several effective strategies:

• - Seal air leaks in windows and doorframes with weather stripping or caulk.
• - Use ceiling fans to circulate warm air by setting them to a clockwise rotation on low.
• - Adjust your thermostat by just one degree to lower your heating costs.
• - Consider investing in a programmable thermostat, which can help homeowners save approximately $100 a year.
• - Switch to LED bulbs, which consume significantly less energy and last much longer compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.
• - Employ timers and motion detectors for indoor and outdoor lighting to minimize unnecessary energy use.
• - Take advantage of off-peak hours for high-energy activities to save even more.

Customers eligible for Time-of-Day rates can benefit from charging electric vehicles during off-peak hours, further reducing expenses.

For households looking to make significant efficiency upgrades, PSEG Long Island offers rebates on high-efficiency air source heat pumps, helping improve comfort levels while striving to reduce energy consumption. The Home Comfort Program provides incentives for both ducted and ductless ASHP units.

For more ways to save, visit the PSEG Long Island website dedicated to energy efficiency rebates and tips. PSEG Long Island operates under the Long Island Power Authority and is committed to helping its customers through transitional times such as the end of the heating season. By providing financial assistance, energy efficiency education, and encouragement to apply for state benefits, PSEG Long Island aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens its customers face.

Stay informed and take advantage of available resources to ensure energy bills remain manageable as the seasons change.