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.
Get
Help
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.
Protect
Yourself
Utility disconnections prohibited
Consumer Bill of Rights
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.
Utility complaint mediation
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.
Save Money
and Energy
Energy efficiency kits
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.
SOLAR CREDITS
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.