Temperatures are soaring across the southern and eastern United States, that includes in the Commonwealth. The heat has many people cranking the air conditioning, which will have an impact on electric bills. Martina Rhodes is CEO of Gateway Community Action, which tracks electric bills and coordinates the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Rhodes said her agency has already seen power bills rise over the last couple months. She added it’s never too late to take steps to weatherize your home.
“The first step is to look at maybe insulating and filling your attic spaces in your home. As well as weather-seal leaky doors and windows. Sealing your HVAC ducts and installing external storm windows or solar screens,” said Rhodes.
Rhodes added that LIHEAP’s Summer Subsidy program is currently taking applications. The program is designed to offset costs of higher electric bills during harsh summer and winter months.
“I would highly recommend that if you have high energy costs, to look at utilizing our program at Gateway Community Action. Income eligibility is up to and including 150 percent of the federal poverty guideline. And eligible households can the one-time benefit ranging from $50 to $250.”
Applications will be accepted through September 22, or until funds are depleted. More information can be found at 800-927-1833.
