PECO and PGW will not disconnect power for low-income households during the government shutdown.
Amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) and Peco Energy are taking significant steps to ensure continued energy assistance for their customers. The two utility companies have announced that they will not disconnect services for households participating in their energy assistance programs, even as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding remains stalled due to the shutdown. This extension of service protections is particularly crucial as the government’s delays in distributing LIHEAP benefits exacerbate the challenges faced by many families across the state.
State Representative Jordan Harris of Philadelphia highlighted the collaboration between PGW and Peco, emphasizing the importance of reaching out to local energy providers for support. Under normal circumstances, LIHEAP provides essential financial aid to low-income households to help them heat their homes during the winter months. Unfortunately, with the program’s applications now postponed until at least December 3, Pennsylvanians relying on this critical assistance are facing increased uncertainty.
Originally set to open on November 3, the LIHEAP program has historically rendered assistance exceeding 0 million to state households in need over the past two years. This aid is particularly vital for older adults and low-income families during the colder months. As the shutdown progresses, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services may be forced to re-evaluate the timeline for accepting new applications, heightening concern for those unable to secure heating.
Beginning on Saturday, PGW and Peco will facilitate enrollment for eligible customers in their respective assistance initiatives—the Customer Responsibility Program offered by PGW and the Customer Assistance Program from Peco. Furthermore, service disconnections will be suspended for residential customers already enrolled in these programs. This measure extends to customers who directed their LIHEAP grants to PGW or Peco within specified periods, providing a lifeline to approximately 300,000 Pennsylvanians who utilize LIHEAP during the winter months.
The initiative from PGW and Peco represents a proactive response to the pressures that vulnerable households face amidst the current challenges. The utilities aim to mitigate the adverse effects of the government shutdown, demonstrating their commitment to community welfare. For residents in need of assistance, enrolling in these assistance programs can be accomplished through direct outreach to their energy providers via phone or online.
As the situation surrounding the federal shutdown continues to unfold, Harris encourages those in financial distress to contact their local representatives to navigate available resources successfully. In a period marked by uncertainty, this collective effort underscores the importance of maintaining essential services for Pennsylvania families.
