Delaware ranks among worst states for energy assistance. What support is available?
A new study ranked Delaware as the sixth-worst state for energy assistance and support, compared to other states despite multiple programs aimed at helping residents manage their energy costs.
The review, conducted by Home Energy Club, a digital marketing firm specializing in electricity plans, examined states' energy assistance support. Factors such as funding per person for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), the number of renewable energy programs and the average energy price in each state were considered in the rank.
According to the report, Delaware scored 3.33 out of 10. While the state provides $24.59 per person in LIHEAP funding — higher than four of the five least supportive states — its average energy price ($27.74 per million BTU) and limited renewable energy incentives curtail a higher placement.
The study's top five worst states for energy assistance are:
Hawaii – Score: 0.80
Nevada – Score: 1.53
Arizona – Score: 2.13
Tennessee – Score: 2.67
District of Columbia – Score: 2.87
Although it scored low, Delaware offers several comprehensive assistance programs for residents struggling with energy costs. In fiscal year 2023, the program assisted over 23,500 households through various initiatives, including the Weatherization Assistance Program and the Summer Cooling Assistance Program.
The Delaware Energy Assistance Program (DEAP) provides financial assistance to income-eligible residents to help cover the cost of energy bills, energy crises and home weatherization repairs. Administered by the Division of State Service Centers, may apply for benefits online at the Department of Health & Human Services website or by contacting Catholic Charities in their county.
For Delaware households at or below 60% of Delaware's median income seeking help with energy costs, the state offers these options:
Delaware Energy Assistance Program (DEAP)/LIHEAP
Heating assistance: Available October through April, with benefits ranging from $200 to $4,973
Cooling assistance: Runs May through August, offering up to $1,000 in support
Crisis assistance: Year-round emergency help up to $10,000
Weatherization Assistance Program
Offered through the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Provides free home energy efficiency improvements such as weatherstripping, insulation and light bulbs
Available to both homeowners and renters
Contact the Energy Coordinating Agency to make an appointment
Residents facing energy hardships can also explore assistance through the Energize Delaware, First State Community Action Agency and utility company assistance programs.
Energize Delaware
Energize Delaware is a nonprofit organization offering several programs to help residents reduce energy consumption and become more energy efficient. Here are some services it offers:
Energy audit, counseling and check-up services
Rebates on upgrades like new heating/cooling systems and hot water heaters
Low-interest loans or grants for large renewable energy systems (e.g., solar, geothermal)
Available to residential and non-residential customers
Chesapeake Utilities
The Chesapeake Utilities serves approximately 108,000 customers in Delaware and Maryland. The Chesapeake Utilities Corporation SHARING grant helps eligible Chesapeake Utilities customers with winter heating costs. Customer donations, matched by shareholders, are administered by Catholic Charities (Kent/New Castle) and the Salvation Army (Sussex).
To request assistance, apply on the SHARING program's website or call:
New Castle County: 302-654-9295
Kent County: 302-674-1782
Sussex County: 302-856-6310
Delmarva Power
Delmarva Power's Good Neighbor Energy Fund matches customer contributions with a donation from shareholders. A household must first apply for LIHEAP. Funds are administered by the Salvation Army. Call 302-472-0750 for more information.
First State Community Action Agency
To apply for the Summer Cooling Assistance Program, which helps eligible residents offset cooling costs or receive a free in-window air conditioner, visit the First State Community Action Agency's website.
You can contact Anitra Johnson at ajohnson@delawareonline.com.
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware Energy Assistance Programs for residents ranks low
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