With colder temperatures set to increase energy usage and inflation affecting the cost of energy supply sources, PPL Electric Utilities wants to remind customers of multiple assistance programs for those struggling to pay their energy bills.

“We understand these market conditions could potentially create additional financial strain for our customers over the coming winter,” PPL Electric Utilities President Steph Raymond said. “We want our customers to know we are here to help during these difficult times. I would encourage anyone who needs assistance paying their electric bill to connect with us to see what programs are available to them.”

Income-eligible programs available to customers include the following:

• Emergency Rental Assistance program, a federal program that helps renters affected by financial hardships during the COVID-19 pandemic with free money to cover rent, utility bills, fees and past-due balances

• Low-income Home Energy Assistance Program, a federal program that provides grants to income-eligible households to help with home energy bills or to pay off past-due balances

• OnTrack payment plan, a program that makes managing energy bills easier with lower fixed monthly payments and debt forgiveness for qualifying customers

• Operation HELP, a fuel fund supported by donations from PPL Electric Utilities employees and customers that provides grants to help customers with their energy bills

• Winter relief assistance program - a program that offers free energy-efficiency products, such as LED bulbs, to income-eligible customers to help them reduce the amount of energy they use and, in turn, reduce their bill

All customers, regardless of income, can also take advantage of other bill help services, including budget billing or choosing a payment due date that works for their budget.

Even if customers do not think they would qualify but are struggling to pay their bill, PPL Electric Utilities encourages them to reach out to find what may work for them. For more information on these programs and how to apply, visit pplelectric.com/billhelp.