Columbus Announces New Utilities Low Income Assistance Program
Eligible Columbus Division of Power customers will get new payment relief this summer thanks to a $147,684.00 EcoSmart Choice Sustainability Grant. The pilot Power Payment Relief Program will begin this summer and feature a one-time billing credit of up to $150 for low income active account holders who are struggling to pay their electric bill.
“This program will help Columbus families with the greatest needs pay their city electric bills, similar to a program currently offered by the Division of Water,” said Mayor Andrew J. Ginther. “We’ll also empower these families with tips and links to programs that lower electricity use, which is good for their budgets and for a more sustainable Columbus.”
EcoSmart Choice Sustainability Grant is made possible through American Municipal Power, Inc. and is designed to recognize communities that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability through the promotion of environmentally focused, community based grant projects.
In order to receive the assistance, a customer must have an active power account that is past due and in jeopardy of being disconnected and a household income below 150% of the federal poverty level. Proof of income will be required and emergency funding cannot exceed the total current balance on the account. Additional rules and guidelines will be announced when the signup period begins sometime this summer.
Customers receiving assistance will also receive educational information with simple energy saving tips to help customers understand ways to reduce their energy consumption in the future.
The Columbus Division of Power is a full-service, publicly owned electrical utility that provides power to industry, business and residential customers through our own distribution system. We have a commitment serve the community by using our profit to fund the city’s street light system.
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