The District of Columbia has extended coronavirus (COVID-19) moratoriums on utility shutoffs until April 15, 2021. This means utility bills are likely to be higher than average, but you can take action now  monitor your energy usage and sign up for District government programs and initiatives that can help lower those costs.

1. Make a plan

Keep paying your utility bills but contact your utility companies to set up payment plan if you fall behind.

2. Pay what you can

Pay what you can each month to keep utility bills as current as possible.

3. Find resources to reduce your costs

Contact District government agencies that can assist you in paying or reducing your utility bills.

4. Cut your bills

Consider renewable energy options and find ways to conserve energy.

The Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia (DCPSC) requires Pepco, Washington Gas and Verizon to offer Utility Discount Programs (UDP) to residential customers. The programs assist low-income District residents in reducing their utility costs. To qualify, your utility bills must be in your name and you must meet income guidelines. Call 311 to apply for the program.

The District Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE) assists income-eligible District households with heating and cooling energy costs through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Eligible households may receive energy bill assistance between $250 and $1,800 as a one-time regular energy assistance benefit. This benefit is based on household size, total household income, heating source and type of dwelling.

WAP provides low-income District residents technical and financial assistance to help reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient. WAP performs energy audits and installs audit-recommended energy efficiency measures to help families maintain energy-efficient, safe and healthy homes.

Financial assistance is available to provide emergency relief to District residents struggling with unpaid DC Water bills during the COVID-19 public health emergency and 105 days thereafter. Eligible households may receive bill assistance up to $2,000 as a one-time emergency benefit.

OPC is the statutory advocate for DC Water ratepayers and can assist with CRIAC issues and complaint resolution.

LPRAP uses District funds to assist with eligible property owner’s lead pipe replacement. Each property owner can receive 50% of their costs covered (up to $2,500), regardless of income. Some residents will qualify for 80% or 100% assistance depending on household size and income.

The RiverSmart Homes program offers incentives to District homeowners interested in reducing stormwater pollution from their properties.

The D.C. Council passed emergency legislation prohibiting the disconnection of electric and natural gas services for non-payment during the COVID-19 public health emergency or for 15 calendar days thereafter. Although disconnection of service for non-payment has been suspended, consumers will continue to be billed as usual by their utilities for services consumed. The Council also passed supplemental emergency legislation prohibiting a telecommunications service provider from disconnecting, suspending or degrading telecommunications service for non-payment of a bill, any fees for service or equipment, and other charges, or noncompliance with a deferred payment agreement during a public health emergency or for 15 calendar days thereafter.

The Consumer Bill of Rights provides safeguards for District utility consumers that use natural gas, electricity and telecommunications services in the District’s competitive utility markets. It defines the relationship and responsibilities of utility service providers and consumers.

Learn more in the OPC guide, Take Command of your Utility Rights.

The DCPSC and Office of the People's Counsel (OPC) have staff available to assist consumers with problems they may have with a utility company or competitive provider.

Nationwide, there has been a noticeable increase in the reported number of utility scams. Scammers are tricking consumers into giving away their money or personal information. This campaign is spreading the word about utility scams and providing tips for protecting yourself, your family and your community.

Solar for All brings the benefits of solar energy to 100,000 low- to moderate-income District families. DOEE partners with organizations, including the DC Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU), across the District to install solar on single family homes and develop community solar projects to benefit renters and residents in multi-family buildings. Solar for All participants should expect to see a 50% savings on their electricity bill over 15 years.

District energy customers have a choice when it comes to their energy supplier. Whether your concern is a fixed price over time, reducing your carbon footprint or finding additional services, consumers can compare and switch their supplier using the DCPSC’s DC Power Connect site to get the best energy option for their household.

The DCSEU’s Home Energy Conservation Kits help consumers save up to a combined $40 on their electric, natural gas and water bill each year. Each kit contains 6 omni-direction LED lightbulbs, an advanced power strip and a bathroom faucet aerator. Consumers who already receive LIHEAP benefits can request a kit at no-cost; all District residents can purchase a kit for $10.

The District’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) has created a vibrant local market for Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs). Register your solar systems with the DCPSC to generate and sell SRECs.

Winter Ready DC, an annual campaign from the DCPSC, provides District residents information on how to save energy and reduce their energy bills over the winter. The campaign also offers free home weatherization kits (while supplies last) and tips on how to prepare your home and stay informed about winter weather.

When your HVAC or an appliance breaks in your home, replace it with an energy-efficient option. The DCSEU offers rebates on qualified efficient heating and cooling systems, water heaters, smart thermostats and appliances.