CLARKSBURG — As the region sees signs of winter, Dominion Energy West Virginia reminds customers of flexible bill payment options and energy assistance programs as well as offers some energy-saving tips.
While improving your home’s energy efficiency, these can also help ease financial stress for customers facing economic struggles and those on fixed incomes.
“We encourage those who may be facing financial hardship to learn more about special payment arrangements and take advantage of our energy assistance programs and conservation tips,” DEWV director Jonell Carver said.
To reduce energy waste and improve household safety, have your heating system checked annually by a qualified technician. This can ensure that you receive the maximum efficiency and comfort. More importantly, an inspection can make sure a heating system is operating safely. A system that is not working properly can produce carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless gas that kills hundreds of people every year and makes thousands ill.
As a reminder, carbon monoxide poisoning causes flu-like symptoms such as dizziness, headaches and drowsiness, and prolonged exposure can cause death. It’s recommended that carbon monoxide detectors be placed in the sleeping areas of the house for added protection.
Additionally, customers can save as much as 30% on energy bills with these simple steps:
– For every degree you lower the thermostat, you save 3% on energy costs.
– Close off unused rooms. There’s no reason to heat a space that’s not being used.
– Install storm windows and doors; they can reduce heat loss by 50%.
– Turn down the hot water tank’s thermostat to medium.
– Don’t peek. Every time the oven door opens, you lose 25 degrees of cooking heat.
– Always dry full loads of clothes to make the best use of appliances and energy dollars.
– Switch to lower water temperatures for clothes washing and rinse in cold water.
Energy assistance
DEWV also offers several options for customers who are experiencing high winter bills. Customers can make arrangements by calling 800-688-4673. Contacting the utility early may provide more options.
Some accommodations include:
– Budget billing: A convenient option to avoid seasonal fluctuations in bills. The amount you pay on your Dominion Energy natural gas bill will be the same every month, making budgeting easier.
– Flexible payment plans: Help spread payments out and make them more manageable.
There are also several state and federally funded programs available for qualifying customers.
Government programs
– 2-1-1 West Virginia — If you’re past due on your energy bill or facing disconnection of your gas service, dial 2-1-1. Trained professionals can provide referrals to resources for basic human needs, child care, elder care, housing assistance and more. Help is available 24/7.
– Dollar Energy Fund — Dollar Energy Fund is a 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for households experiencing hardships by providing utility assistance and other services that lead to self-sufficiency. Every winter heating season, DEWV provides $25,000 toward this fund.
– LIHEAP — The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps keep families safe and healthy through initiatives that assist families with energy costs.
– LIEAP — The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program assists eligible households with the cost of home heating through direct cash payments or payments to utility companies on their behalf.
Weatherization Assistance — The West Virginia Office of Economic Opportunity manages the state’s weatherization assistance program to help reduce energy costs, through improvements like insulation, with funds from the U.S. Department of Energy, LIHEAP and utility partnerships.
OEO contracts with community agencies that employ trained crews to install insulation, reduce air-infiltration, perform heating and cooling tune-ups and modifications, and when appropriate, replace heating units for energy efficiency and safety. Education is also provided on use and maintenance. Each year, DEWV contributes $100,000 to this program.
