Yep, the heat is on. However, the cooler months are approaching and residents across the Commonwealth are on the hunt for ways to save money on their utility bills. By concentrating on the energy use in your household, you can save money while also improving your carbon footprint.The Attorney General's office in Massachusetts serves up tips on ways to save on energy in their newly launched Energy Resource Guide.
Discounted Utility Rates
Low-income customers could be eligible for discounted rates on their gas, electricity and telephone services. According to the MA Energy Resource Guide, the income of customers must meet eligibility requirements and receive some form of additional benefits, a few of the programs are as follows:- Food Stamps
- Emergency Assistance to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children
- Head Start
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
- Mass Health/ Medicaid
Budget and Payment Plans
Budget and payment plans are extremely helpful for most, especially for those who live paycheck to paycheck. There is a free budget billling plan offered, which allows customers to spread their bill over a 12 month period. This period is interest free. A payment plan is offered as well. The payment plan is an arrangement between the company and the customer, allowing the customer to pay back the over-due amount in a certain amount of time.Arrearage Management Programs
What are arrearage management programs? They are programs that can help customers come to terms with their overdue bill, and manage the bill effectively. The utility company will then set up an affordable payment, will not shut-off service, conduct a home energy audit, and forgive part of the debt if the payment plan is followed. The requirements for this program differ between utility companies, however, most likely the following requirements will be in place:- Be eligible for fuel assistance
- Owe a minimum amount on overdue bills
- Agree to take part in budget counseling and energy efficiency program
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