ELECTRICAL SERVICES COMPANY
Electric bills can be a significant burden, especially during challenging financial times. At Palmer Electric, we want to ensure our Orlando & Central Florida community knows about the various assistance programs available to help manage and reduce electric bills. Here’s an overview of some valuable resources that can provide much-needed support.
Resources to get emergency help with an electric bill
Heart of Florida United Way: Helping You Pay Your Electricity Bills
Heart of Florida United Way offers several programs to assist residents struggling to pay their electricity bills. Here are the main programs they provide:
Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC)
- Eligibility: Residential OUC customers in Orange or Osceola county.
- Requirements:
- OUC account number.
- Reason for financial hardship (e.g., job loss, medical expenses).
- Assistance Provided: Up to $500 per household, once a year.
Duke Energy
- Eligibility: Residential Duke Energy customers in Orange, Osceola, or Seminole county.
- Requirements:
- Duke Energy account number.
- Most recent bill showing past due status.
- Assistance Provided: Twice a year per household.
Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD)
- Eligibility: Residential LANGD customers.
- Requirements:
- LANGD account number.
- Most recent bill showing past due status.
- Assistance Provided: Up to $350 per household, twice a year.
City of Winter Park Electric Utility
- Eligibility: Winter Park Electric Utility customers.
- Requirements:
- Winter Park Electric Utility account number.
- Reason for financial hardship.
- Assistance Provided: Up to $650 per household annually.
How to Apply to get emergency help with an electric bill
Visit the Heart of Florida United Way website.
- Create an account: Click on “Apply Now” to set up your account.
- Submit your application: Provide the necessary information, including your account number and the reason for your financial hardship.
If you don’t qualify for these programs, Heart of Florida United Way’s 211 Call Center can connect you with other community resources. Simply call 211, text your zip code to 898-211, or reach out via email or chat.
Note: For all detailed information and complete specific requirements, please visit the respective program website.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is another valuable resource for those struggling with their energy bills. Administered by the Florida Department of Commerce, LIHEAP provides federally funded assistance to help income-qualified families with home heating and cooling costs.
Program Overview
Depending on your location, LIHEAP can assist with:
- Energy Bill Assistance: Help with paying for home energy bills, including electricity, natural gas, propane, fuel oil, or wood.
- Weatherization Support: Services to make your home more energy-efficient and reduce costs.
- Crisis Assistance: Priority assistance for households facing disconnection or in danger of being without heating or cooling.
- Equipment Repair & Replacement: Aid for fixing heating and cooling equipment.
- Energy Education: Resources and strategies to manage home energy usage and bills effectively.
- Disaster Assistance: Support during or after natural disasters.
Eligibility Requirements:
Income Limits: Your total household income must be below a certain threshold, which varies based on household size. For example:
- Household of 1: $27,735 annually
- Household of 2: $36,269 annually
- Household of 3: $44,803 annually
Add $8,534 for each additional household member
Other Criteria:
- Must be a resident of Florida.
- Must be responsible for paying home heating or cooling bills.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen, qualified alien, or permanent resident.
How to Apply:
- Find Your Local Provider: Applications must be submitted through local LIHEAP providers. You can find your local provider’s contact information and application process on the Florida Department of Commerce website.
- Contact the Local Agency: Call the agency, and they will guide you through the application process.
- Submit Required Documentation: This typically includes your most recent home energy bill, proof of income, photo identification, social security cards for all household members, and proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residence.
Note: For all detailed information and complete specific requirements, please visit the respective program website.
Additional Tips for Lowering Your Electric Bills
In addition to seeking financial assistance, consider these practical tips to manage and reduce your electric bills:
- Energy-Efficient Appliances: Invest in energy-efficient appliances that consume less electricity.
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure your electrical systems and appliances are regularly maintained to avoid inefficiencies.
- Smart Thermostats: Use smart thermostats to better control your heating and cooling usage.
- Unplug Devices: Unplug devices when not in use to avoid phantom energy consumption.
ELECTRICAL SERVICES COMPANY NEAR ME
At Palmer Electric, we’re committed to helping our Orlando community stay informed and supported when it comes to managing electric bills. Our experienced team of experienced electricians provides top-notch electrical services to ensure your home is safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient.
If you need assistance with reducing costs, or any emergency electrical services and repairs, call us today at 407-646-8700. We’re here to guide you through these challenges and find solutions tailored to your needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Palmer Electric – your electrical service provider in Orlando and Central Florida since 1951.
