We work with and direct funds to a variety of energy assistance programs. You’ll find the programs described here along with phone numbers of agencies that distribute the funds.

PGE also offers payment options, such as our Equal Pay plan, that are easier on your budget. For more information, see our Payment Plan Information.

Financial assistance
Here are the three primary programs that offer financial assistance to qualifying limited and fixed-income energy customers.

Low-Income Energy Assistance Program
This federally funded program distributes one-time annual grants to help eligible households pay their energy bills in winter. In Oregon, the Department of Housing & Community Service receives the federal funds and administers the program through contracts with various social service agencies.

To be eligible, you must meet income guidelines (see box), but you do not have to have a shut-off notice from PGE. Assistance levels vary depending on the type of energy used for your primary heating source, the number of people in your household and whether you currently receive subsidized housing. Special outreach is provided to seniors, the disabled and households with young children under six. This program opens to the general public in December.

Income Guidelines
LIEAP, OEAP & Oregon HEAT use the following income guidelines to determine program eligibility.

Oregon Energy Assistance Program
OEAP is funded by a state-mandated electric meter charge. To assist low-income customers who are in danger of utility service disconnection, all PGE customers pay a monthly meter charge. To be eligible, you must meet income guidelines (see box above) and priority is given to customers who may be in danger of disconnection.

Oregon HEAT
This private nonprofit organization helps low-income customers in crisis situations pay their winter utility bills. Oregon HEAT, which is funded by PGE and other utility companies, as well as donations from PGE customers, distributes one-time grants through a number of community nonprofit organizations. Eligibility is based on income and need.

Oregon HEAT help for moderate-income households
If your income is a little higher than the guidelines, you may qualify for a new pilot program to help moderate-income households. Enrollment is limited to the first 600 who qualify.

Call if you meet the following guidelines:

• You’re a current customer of PGE
• You’re within the household income range below
• Your minimum account balance is $200

Where to get help
The following organizations distribute LIEAP, OEAP and/or Oregon HEAT funds to qualifying limited and fixed-income residents. This is the current list; participating organizations may change annually.

If you are calling about the Oregon HEAT pilot program for moderate-income households, please let the agency know that when you make the call.