New York State Electric and Gas is directing customers to bill-assistance programs and simple energy-saving steps as colder weather begins to raise household heating demand.
The utility says the 2026-27 Home Energy Assistance Program season opens Monday, Nov. 2. HEAP is a federally funded program that helps qualifying households pay energy costs and may also support heating-system repairs and weatherization. NYSEG says customers who receive a regular HEAP benefit are automatically enrolled in its Energy Affordability Program, which provides a monthly bill credit.
Another option, the Enhanced Energy Affordability Program, is intended for moderate-income households that do not qualify for or are not enrolled in the Energy Affordability Program. Approved EEAP customers receive credits directly on their energy bills and remain enrolled for 18 months before they must reapply. Eligibility is based on household income and size.
NYSEG also recommends paying attention to equipment that can sharply increase electricity use. The utility says lowering a thermostat by one degree during the winter can reduce fuel use by as much as 3 percent when health and comfort permit. A typical 1,500-watt portable space heater used eight hours a day can add roughly 360 kilowatt-hours to monthly electricity use. Customers should also keep heating vents clear, replace furnace filters regularly and use programmable thermostat settings when appropriate.
Customers can review assistance options and applications through NYSEG’s Help With Your Bill pages. Those who need help identifying a payment arrangement or assistance program may call NYSEG at 800-572-1111. The utility advises customers to apply promptly because benefit availability and program eligibility rules can vary.
