Affordable Energy: How Natural Gas Utilities Support Families in Need 

The affordability of natural gas makes it a standout energy choice. Households using natural gas for cooking, space heating and clothes drying save an average of $1,132 per year compared to those relying on electricity for the same activities. However, many households across the U.S. still struggle to pay their energy bills, and natural gas utilities do a great deal to help customers with the assistance they need.  

For the average limited-income household, the energy burden is three times that of other households. This means that for families with annual incomes of less than $35,000, more than half reported reducing or going without medicine or food at least once in the previous 12 months to pay an energy bill. In response, many utilities promote and inform qualifying customers about LIHEAP, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. LIHEAP is a federally funded program that provides financial support to qualifying families, helping to lessen the burden of energy bills. 

There is a secondary group of households, often referred to as ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) customers, who don’t typically qualify for federal assistance programs like LIHEAP, but still lack the resources needed to make ends meet, forcing them to make impossible choices between essential expenses like fuel, food, and medical care. To support these customers, utilities partner with charitable groups funded by private donations and may offer assistance through discounts, fee waivers, arrearage forgiveness, and efficiency/weatherization programs funded by customers and shareholders. 

Ensuring everyone has access to reliable and affordable energy without compromising their basic needs is critical to natural gas utilities. Utilities are committed to easing the energy burden on vulnerable households and fueling our communities.