“Ensuring no Ohioan is left in the cold.” Helping customers tackle rising energy bills
During cold weather months before the spring thaw, Ohioans are going to come face-to-face with higher energy bills.
To prevent homeowners’ electricity and gas from being shut off due to late payments, statewide organizations and programs are put in place to help manage the expense.
Public Utilities Commission of Ohio chair Jenifer French said most Ohio natural gas utility companies offer assistance to income eligible customers for gas bills.
“Each winter, households in Ohio can face difficult decisions regarding which bills to pay,” French said. “Programs such as HeatShare, administered by the Salvation Army, are vital to ensuring that Ohio’s most vulnerable can heat their homes.”
Local HEAP resources
HEAP is a federally-funded program to help eligible Ohio families heat their homes for a lower cost. It’s administered by the Ohio Department of Development, and eligible customers have to show a household income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines.
Customers can learn more about HEAP through the Mahoning Valley area community action agency through April 18:
- Mahoning Youngstown Community Action Partnership - call (330) 747-7921 for general information and 330-778-2992 to make an appointment
Community Action Agency of Columbiana - call 330-892-8880
- Trumbull Community Action Program - call 330-951-0015 to schedule an appointment
Customers in need of reconnection must pay an additional reconnection fee, and customers who use the SRO will need to set up a payment plan for their outstanding balance. Check the HEAP application fact sheet for more details.
Salvation Army
Anyone facing issues with paying their utility bills should reach out to the utility company first. If you still need assistance after that, get in touch with a local Salvation Army for assistance with enrolling in its assistance program.
Major Tricia Brennan is a coordinator for The Salvation Army in Central Ohio. She said the partnership between Columbia Gas of Ohio has been ongoing for the past two decades.
“Our partnership with Columbia Gas of Ohio has made a real difference for Ohioans by providing critical utility assistance. With the increased funding and eligibility doubled, we can keep more households safe and warm during the winter season,” Brennan said.
HeatShare is applicable to only Columbia Gas of Ohio customers and households who are at or below 300% of the federal poverty guidelines can receive funds through HeatShare.
HeatShare can be used in conjunction with the PUCO’s Winter Reconnect Order.
For guidelines of the federal poverty limits, refer to the PUCO’s website.
Consumers with utility-related questions or concerns can call the PUCO Call Center at (800) 686-PUCO (7826) and speak with a representative.
“Together, we are making a real difference, ensuring that no Ohioan is left in the cold,” Brennan said.
