Eversource Offering Energy Assistance Programs

In full transparency, the following is a press release from Eversource

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BOSTON – With historically high energy prices affecting people throughout the region, Eversource is encouraging customers to take advantage of additional energy assistance funds available through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. 

In recognition of National Energy Assistance Day, the company is urging customers to learn more about the program which not only helps customers pay their energy bills, but also provides weatherization funds to help make their home more energy efficient and comfortable during the winter.

]“We want to make sure customers who need help are aware of the many programs they can take advantage of, especially now with historically high energy costs we’re seeing due to global events and demand,” said Eversource Vice President of Customer Operations Jess Cain. “Customers who’ve never needed help before may qualify for these programs. In addition to the federal assistance that customers can receive through Massachusetts’ Fuel Assistance program, they can also benefit from enrolling in one of our many bill assistance plans even if they have never needed help with their bill before.”

Fuel Assistance, or LIHEAP, provides assistance for winter heating costs for thousands of Massachusetts homeowners and renters who meet state income guidelines. Congress recently approved $6 billion in LIHEAP funds to help low-income families nationwide, which funds the program. Customers can learn more and apply online at mass.gov or through their local Community Action Program (CAP). Customers can find their local agency at masscap.org or by calling 211 or Eversource. 

The Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund helps residents who are experiencing a temporary crisis and do not qualify for state or federal assistance with their utility bill by providing a one-time payment of up to $500. Customers can apply at MAGoodNeighbor.org or at their local Salvation Army Corps Community Center.

Eversource payment plans and assistance:

The New Start Program can help income-eligible, electric and gas customers reduce or eliminate their outstanding balance in as little as 12 months when they make on-time monthly payments and Eversource will make up the difference by eliminating or forgiving a portion of the total balance enrolled in the program – reducing the amount owed each month. 

Flexible Payment Plans are available to all customers, regardless of income, to pay their past-due balance over a period of time. 

Budget Billing Plans are also available and can help customers avoid seasonal spikes on their energy bill by paying a fixed amount each month based on their average annual usage. 

A Discount Rate is available to customers receiving public assistance benefits and have a household income at or below 60% of the state median income. These customers may be eligible for a 42% discount on their monthly electric bill or a 25% discount on their monthly natural gas bill. 

Energy Efficiency Offerings can help customers reduce their energy use and stay comfortable for less with energy-saving upgrades. Customers may qualify for 100%-off approved insulations and air sealing, as well as generous rebates on heading equipment. For more information visit MassSave.com.

Eversource is holding several in-person billing assistance events where customers can meet one-on-one with specialists who can connect them with programs and resources to help manage, pay, and lower their energy bill. Registration is not required, but attendees are encouraged to bring a copy of their benefit letter or other proof of income to verify eligibility for assistance.

Upcoming events in February include: Natick Monday, February 6, at the Morse Institute Library at 14 East Central Street from 4pm to 7pm

Lawrence Tuesday, February 28, at the Lawrence Senior center at 155 Haverhill Street from 4pm to 7pm (Snow Day: March 7, 2023) 

The energy company will also provide a free webinar on Monday, February 27^th at noon. 

Customers can also call Eversource at 866-861-6225 (Eastern Massachusetts) or 877-963-2632 (Western Massachusetts) to learn more about the assistance and payment programs available or to verify their financial hardship status. Information on energy efficiency solutions can be found at Eversource.com