We understand that sometimes financial situations make it difficult to meet your energy bills. To assist customers in need, PGE works with a variety of financial-assistance programs. You’ll find the programs described here along with phone numbers of agencies that distribute the funds.

There is less money to go around in 2011 than in previous years. We encourage you to apply, but be aware that funds are limited and not everyone who qualifies will receive assistance.

PGE also offers payment options, such as our Equal Pay plan, that are easier on your budget. For more information, see our Payment Plan Information.

Financial assistance for low-income customers
Here are the three primary programs that offer financial assistance to qualifying limited and fixed-income energy customers. You must meet the income guidelines listed below.

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
This federally funded program distributes one-time annual grants to help eligible households pay their energy bills in winter.

To be eligible, you must meet income guidelines (see chart below), but you do not have to have a shut-off notice from PGE. Assistance levels vary depending on the type of energy used for your primary heating source, the number of people in your household and whether you currently receive subsidized housing. Special outreach is provided to seniors, the disabled and households with young children under six. This program opens to the general public in December.

Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP)
OEAP is funded by a state-mandated electric meter charge. This is a year-round assistance program funded by a state-mandated electric meter charge. All PGE customers pay a monthly meter charge to support this program. To be eligible, you must meet income guidelines (see chart below) and priority is given to customers who may be in danger of disconnection.

Oregon HEAT
This private nonprofit organization helps low-income customers in crisis situations pay their winter utility bills. Oregon HEAT, which is funded by PGE and other utility companies, as well as donations from PGE customers, distributes one-time grants through a number of community nonprofit organizations. Eligibility is based on income and need.

Income Guidelines
LIHEAP, OEAP & Oregon HEAT use the following income guidelines to determine program eligibility.

Where to apply for assistance
The following organizations distribute LIHEAP, OEAP and/or Oregon HEAT funds to qualifying limited and fixed-income residents. This is the current list; participating organizations may change annually.