Pennsylvania debates automatic sign-ups for utility discounts: only about 22% of eligible gas customers and 23% of eligible electric customers received aid in a typical year from 2014 through 2024. Income-data sharing does not automatically enroll customers.
Pennsylvania's new system lets applicants to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) authorize the state to send income data to their utility, avoiding a second round of eligibility documentation. Duquesne Light and consumer advocates say this falls short and want qualifying customers enrolled automatically. PUC Chair Stephen DeFrank supports data-sharing to simplify applications but opposes making enrollment the default; a commission spokesperson said he wants to protect customers' rights and choices.
Households at or below 150% of the federal poverty line—about $24,000 for one person—may qualify for lower monthly bills; some customers who keep making payments can have overdue balances forgiven. Utility rate-case data cited by Spotlight PA indicate eligible nonparticipants are more likely to fall behind and face shutoffs. Utilities have expanded outreach, and a 2024 evaluation linked stronger outreach by UGI with higher participation. A survey found only 27% of eligible customers who were not enrolled knew the program existed.
