Back to Blog

OPALCO Doubles Down on Low-Income Bill Credits

OPALCO’s Energy Assist Program will double the monthly bill credit for participating low-income members through the end of the year. The number of members participating in this new program is lower than budgeted and the Board decided to increase the assistance for those who need it.

As of August 31, 159 co-op members have applied for and received a monthly credit on their power bill since the new Energy Assist program began in February. The doubled monthly bill credit ranges from $20/month (one person household) up to $50/month (six or more person household). Members who meet the qualifications for other assistance programs such as Federal Free Lunch, LIHEAP or OPALCO’s Project PAL are likely to qualify for the Energy Assist Program.  Members on the Energy Assist Program are also qualified for the same bill credit with Rock Island Communications for Internet services, if available in your area. Please contact Rock Island (www.rockisland.com) for more information.

The Energy Assist Program is funded through a line item on all member bills (on average of about 45 cents per month). This program is distinct from Project PAL, which provides one-time emergency grants to eligible members during the heating season only and is funded by voluntary member donations.

The application for the Energy Assist program is available online, and paper copies can be picked up at your local OPALCO offices and at island Family Resource and Senior Centers.

 

You may also like...

right-of-way

Clearing for Safety: Upcoming Tree Trimming Projects

OPALCO has several right-of-way clearing projects happening the coming months throughout San Juan County. Right-of-way clearing helps manage trees and vegetation near power lines and is critical for wildfire prevention … Read more

Quick Fact: OPALCO Needs a New Submarine Cable to Meet Growing Demand

OPALCO’s power supply system from the mainland is currently at capacity during peak usage events such as extreme low winter temperatures. The San Juan Islands, like many remote and rural … Read more

Climate Action in San Juan County

The Madrona Institute has been hosting an excellent Climate Action Speaker Series. On October 12th, the speaker series featured opening remarks by Senator Liz Lovelett, followed by Jay Kimball, Vice … Read more