NEW YORK- New York State has launched the Enhanced Energy Affordability Program (EEAP), a new initiative designed to help income-qualified households lower their monthly electric and gas bills, even if they do not receive traditional government benefits.
EEAP is a two-year pilot program that expands on the state’s existing Energy Affordability Program (EAP). While EAP serves residents who already participate in assistance programs such as HEAP or SNAP, EEAP is aimed at households that fall outside those programs but still struggle with rising energy costs.
“EEAP is meant to serve households who don’t qualify for EAP, and it potentially offers some much-needed relief to people and families who wouldn’t otherwise be eligible for government benefits,” said Sullivan County Legislature Chair Nadia Rajsz. “All you need to qualify is an active residential electric or gas account with a participating utility and household income under the program limits.”
NYSEG, Orange & Rockland Utilities, and Central Hudson Gas & Electric all participate in both EAP and EEAP, though discount amounts vary by utility. Customers may only be enrolled in one program at a time.
The original Energy Affordability Program was established in 2016 by the New York State Public Service Commission and provides bill discounts to low-income households receiving benefits such as HEAP, SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, TANF, and other assistance programs.
EEAP, launched last month, offers discounts to households that meet income guidelines but do not participate in those benefit programs. Eligibility is based on household size and income, with limits ranging from $69,477 for a one-person household to $184,380 for an eight-person household.
Residents interested in EEAP can apply online at nyeeap.com/program or by calling 1-877-400-2501. Applicants must provide proof of income for all household members and have their utility account number available.
For information about EAP enrollment, residents can contact their utility provider directly.
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