Energy and Environment
Energy Bill Assistance
In addition to energy efficiency services, residents may be eligible for additional programs to help pay energy bills if household income is at or below the income guidelines. Programs include:
Fuel Assistance: Fuel Assistance provides eligible households with help in paying a portion of winter heating bills. If you are already receiving Fuel Assistance, contact your local Community Action Program (CAP) if you would like to receive energy efficiency services. For residents of the NMCOG region, the CAP Agency is Community Teamwork, Inc. in Lowell.
Utility Discount Rates: This offering includes discounted rates that lower actual charges for energy usage. If you qualify for Fuel Assistance or other income-verified programs, you will be referred to your local natural gas or electric utility for a discount on your utility bills.
Payment Plans or Arrearage Management Programs: Massachusetts natural gas and electric utility providers will work with customers on overdue portions of their bill. Some past due balances over a certain amount are forgiven if the customer adheres to a structured payment plan. If you have questions, please contact your gas or electric utility provider directly.
If you are receiving assistance from one of the other programs listed below, you are likely eligible to receive Fuel Assistance, the Utility Discount Rate, and the energy efficiency services described here for 1-4 family homes and multi-family homes:
Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children (EAEDC)
Food Stamps
Head Start
Mass Health
National School Lunch Program
Public Housing
School Breakfast Program
Supplemental Security Program
Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC)
Veterans Programs (Chapter 115 benefits)
Veterans Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) Surviving Parent
Veterans Affairs Non-Service Connected Pension (VANSCP)
Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program