Energy Assistance Options Remain Available For National Grid Customers During Winter Months

Customers May Qualify for Federal Heating Assistance, Discounted Low-Income Rate

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – With winter more than halfway over, National Grid reminds customers that applications are still being accepted for the federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. The program provides income-eligible families assistance in paying their energy bills and offers relief for households in a heating or heating-related energy emergency. HEAP is awarded on a first come, first served basis and does not need to be paid back.

The level of funding varies depending on household income, household composition and heating fuel type in relation to income. Customers who receive HEAP funding also will be automatically enrolled in National Grid’s Low Income Program.

Because HEAP funding is limited, customers who feel they may qualify should contact HEAP immediately:

• • In Upstate New York, please visit the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance website to determine how to apply in your area or call your local county Department of Social Services. Customers age 60 and older who need information on applying can call their county Office for the Aging. More information can be found on the New York State OTDA website.
  • In Downstate New York, applications are accepted by HEAP personnel at National Grid Customer Service Centers from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Customers 60 and older and people receiving Supplemental Security Income can call 311 for information on how to apply. Questions about the HEAP program can be directed to the NYC HEAP Hotline at 800-692-0557.
  • On Long Island and in the Rockaways, call the HEAP information line:

Nassau County (516) 565-4327

Suffolk County (631) 853-8820

The Rockaways (800) 692-0557

Customers age 60 or older can also apply by mail. Applications are available by calling:

The Nassau County Family and Children Association Office for the Aging at (516) 227-7386

The Suffolk County Department for the Aging at (631) 853-8326 or The Rockaways at 3-1-1

• HEAP information is also available on the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance’s website.

To help its most vulnerable customers in need, this year National Grid donated $860,000 to heating assistance funds in New York and New England, including donations of $75,000 to Long Island United Way's Project Warmth, $150,000 to the Neighborhood Heating Fund in New York City, and $250,000 to the Care & Share Energy Fund for upstate New York customers. Over the last decade, the company has made heating fund donations of nearly $11 million. There are several other programs available to National Grid customers to help manage energy costs:

• Billing Options – National Grid has billing programs to help customers spread payments out more evenly across the year, which are particularly helpful to those on fixed incomes. Visit www.nationalgridus.com for more information on this and other payment programs.
• Visit National Grid’s website for energy efficiency programs and saving tips, a list of qualified energy services companies, and much more.