PECO and PGW will not disconnect power for low-income households during the government shutdown.
Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) and Peco Energy are collaborating to provide essential support to low-income households during an ongoing federal government shutdown that has delayed the distribution of funds from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This partnership ensures that customers enrolled in their respective assistance programs will not face service disconnections, despite the unsettling circumstances surrounding federal funding.
On Thursday, State Representative Jordan Harris (D., Philadelphia) announced this initiative, urging affected residents to contact their local energy providers for assistance. With the LIHEAP program—a vital source of support for families struggling to afford heating—currently frozen, PGW and Peco’s actions are critical for ensuring that vulnerable households remain connected to necessary energy services.
Originally set to open for annual applications on November 3, LIHEAP is now obstructed by the prolonged government shutdown, which has halted various federal services, including critical support for food benefits under SNAP. The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services may have to reevaluate the application opening date if the shutdown continues past December 3, when federal assistance is expected to resume.
In the past two years, LIHEAP has disbursed over 0 million in aid to help Pennsylvania households manage their energy costs during winter, particularly benefiting older adults and low-income families. As temperatures drop and bills rise, approximately 300,000 Pennsylvanians traditionally rely on this assistance to help offset their heating expenses.
Starting Saturday, PGW and Peco are ready to assist eligible customers in enrolling in their respective programs: PGW’s Customer Responsibility Program and Peco’s Customer Assistance Program, which also includes the Customer Relief Fund. Both entities will continue to suspend disconnections for participating residential customers, providing much-needed relief amid financial uncertainty.
Residents seeking assistance are encouraged to connect directly with PGW or Peco. PGW customers can enroll by calling 215-235-1000 or visiting their website. Peco customers may apply for aid through their online platforms for the respective assistance programs.
For individuals having difficulty navigating the enrollment process or needing further guidance, contacting local legislative representatives is recommended. Residents can find their representatives by using the “Find My Legislator” tool available on the Pennsylvania General Assembly’s website.
As the winter months loom and economic pressures mount, the proactive measures being taken by energy providers in Pennsylvania stand to make a significant impact on the lives of many families grappling with energy insecurity.
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