WALTHAM, Mass. — National Grid encourages its Massachusetts customers to take advantage of energy programs that can help manage their energy bills and keep their homes comfortable during winter temperatures.

 

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, commonly referred to as fuel assistance, provides eligible households with help in paying a portion of winter heating bills. Enrollment for LIHEAP is free and open through April 30.

 

LIHEAP is open to homeowners and renters, including households whose cost of heat is included in rent. Eligibility is based on household size and the gross annual income of every household member 18 or older. Household income cannot exceed 60 percent of the estimated state median income. The program provides assistance through a fixed benefit amount for the cost of the primary source of heat, which includes, but is not limited to, electricity, oil, natural gas, propane, kerosene, wood, and coal.

 

"National Grid recognizes that energy bills can be a real challenge for many customers — especially in the colder winter months," said Bill Malee, chief customer officer at National Grid. "The LIHEAP program can provide much-needed assistance for customers struggling to keep up with their energy costs and helps cover energy usage dating back to Nov. 1, 2024. We also encourage customers to visit us at one of our Customer Assistance Events, where attendees can meet with National Grid assistance program experts in person and explore options to manage their energy bills and ways to save money."

 

Apply online here or visit and apply at an agency in your area. More information concerning LIHEAP here. Customers can also call the Cold Relief Heatline at 1-800-632-8175.

 

LIHEAP is funded by an annual federal grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, and administered by a network of local agencies, in many areas the same agency that administers the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP or fuel assistance).

 

Along with LIHEAP, National Grid customers have access to several programs designed to help reduce energy use and lower energy costs, manage their energy bills and payments, and help them secure available energy assistance. Customers are encouraged to visit National Grid website to explore assistance options and learn more. Interested Massachusetts customers can call 1-866-527-SAVE (7283). More information is available here.