NEW YORK — Governor Kathy Hochul announced Tuesday the availability of resources to help New Yorkers save on their home energy bills.
A second emergency benefit through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is now available in New York for those eligible in danger of running out of heating fuel or having utility service shut off.
In addition, the Department of State is sharing tips to help consumers lower their utility bills and has released a new Guide to heating the home with oil and propanewhich provides tips to help consumers who use heating oil and propane lower their heating bills and save while buying fuel.
“We are at the height of this winter season that can lead to higher heating and energy bills, and my administration will continue to take steps to make public services more affordable in New York,” said Governor Hochul. “It is important that New Yorkers take advantage of the State’s residential and cost assistance programs to help reduce these energy costs. Following these tips can help save money and protect our vulnerable populations during the cold season.”
HEAP, which is overseen by the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, is federally funded and can help eligible New Yorkers heat and cool their homes.
Typically, eligible households can receive a regular HEAP benefit each winter and may also be eligible for a single emergency HEAP benefit if they face an energy crisis. Those who already received a regular and emergency benefit this winter will be able to apply for an additional emergency benefit, if they face a utility outage or are running low on heating oil and cannot afford to replenish it.
The amount a household receives from HEAP depends on income, the size of the household, and how the home is heated. A family of four can earn up to $5,485 per month and still qualify for assistance. A needy oil-heated household who qualifies for one regular HEAP benefit and two emergency benefits could receive nearly $3,000 in total assistance this winter.
Applications for emergency HEAP benefits are accepted at local departments of social services in person or by phone. You can find a list of offices by county here.
“Colder weather often means higher heating and energy costs, and these higher expenses can be detrimental to New Yorkers who are already struggling to make ends meet,” said Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez, who oversees the Consumer Protection Division. “These practical tips, along with the many resources available here in New York, can help consumers save money while heating their homes in the cold winter months and lower energy costs year-round.”
New York State also offers numerous cost assistance programs for qualified applicants, as well as a variety of residential programs to help reduce home energy costs for all income groups:
Home Energy Efficiency Programs
NYSERDA offers a variety of residential programs designed to help New York State residents identify areas where their homes are increasing energy costs and can provide assistance in completing energy efficiency upgrades for a healthier, more comfortable home. More information is available here.
Home energy audits
New Yorkers can perform an energy audit of their home or apartment to learn recommended efficiency improvements to save money on their energy bill. An audit can provide information on low-cost improvements, as well as large-scale investments and available financial resources. Contact NYSERDA for help here.
Weatherization Assistance Program
The New York State Weatherization Assistance Program, which is administered by NYS Homes and Community Renewal, is the largest residential energy conservation program in the country. The program helps income-eligible homeowners and renters in New York by reducing heating and cooling costs through energy conservation measures, while addressing health and safety issues in their homes. More information is available here.
“Cold temperatures and high energy prices have combined to make this a difficult winter for some of our most vulnerable residents as they struggle with the cost of heating their homes,” said the commissioner of the Office of Temporary Assistance and Disability, Daniel W. Tietz. “Without this additional assistance, many New Yorkers would find themselves with nowhere else to turn in an emergency situation.”
