Dear Commissioner:
I am writing to provide you with an update on steps and engagement that are currently underway with customers during these unprecedented times. Pepco remains committed to the health and well-being of our employees, customers and communities.
To support greater awareness, we’ve begun an advertising campaign using traditional media and social media to further educate customers and stakeholders on ways Pepco can help customers manage their energy bills. We also are continuing direct customer outreach through letters, emails and phone calls in an effort to establish payment arrangements.
Since April of this year, Pepco has helped thousands of customers with programs to manage their electricity bills and this need is continuing. We recognize that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been significant, and we want customers to contact us to establish a payment arrangement and secure possible energy. We offer a variety of individually tailored payment arrangements aimed at bringing the account up to date over a mutually agreeable timeframe.
Additionally, Pepco customers can apply for energy assistance online through the Department of Energy and the Environment (DOEE) website at doee.dc.gov. Customer assistance programs through the District government, non-profits and Pepco are utilized continuously by District residents and businesses and have never been more important than during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Utility Discount Program (UDP) assists low-income District residents to reduce their utility costs. Eligible customers may receive a discount of up to $475 per year on their electric bill ($300 per year if non-electric heat).
DOEE assists income-eligible District households with heating and cooling energy costs through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Eligible households may receive energy bill assistance between $250 and $1,800 as a one-time energy assistance benefit. This benefit is based on household size, total household income, heating source, and type of dwelling.
The Greater Washington Urban League provides up to $500 in assistance to eligible customers facing disconnection. Customers can call 202-265-8200 or visit gwul.org.
With the Gift of Energy, anyone can make a payment towards a friend or family member’s energy bill. A Gift of Energy will appear on the recipient’s bill as a credit to their account. The provider can give any amount to any customer they choose.
Customers who have the ability to do so can support the Good Neighbor Energy Fund by adding $1 to their next bill payment. We will match their donation and those funds will go to someone in need of energy assistance.
If customers prefer a consistent and predictable monthly payment throughout the year that eliminates monthly or seasonal variation, Budget Billing spreads costs evenly month to month by charging a pre-arranged amount with each bill.
For customers whose main source of household income is from government or an entitlement program, they may qualify for a regular extension of their bill due date that aligns more with the date of issuance without incurring a late charge.
Our goal is to keep every customer connected with Pepco. The best way to do that is for customers to contact us, discuss their situation and review several assistance options including establishing a payment plan. For Assistance, please visit pepco.com/help or contact us at 202-833-7500. If your office has any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best Regards,
Moneka
External Affairs Manager, DC Region
Governmental and External Affairs
202.872.7930
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