Gov. Matt Meyer announced an agreement with Delmarva Power to help with current and future energy bills for struggling Delaware families:
“Today, the State of Delaware is proud to announce a meaningful step forward for Delaware families. Through a renewed partnership between the Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) and Delmarva Power, we are proud to announce the expansion of the Home Energy Check-Up and Counseling Program (HEC²). Not only will the expansion deliver immediate utility bill credits to eligible households, but it will also invest in long-term energy efficiency improvements that reduce costs over time," Meyer stated.
Meyer continued, "This is a win for the people of Delaware. At a time when energy prices have stretched household budgets through both winter and summer, this agreement will bring nearly $6.5 million in total relief and energy-saving support to our communities—without shifting any of the cost burden onto customers. It’s a model of what collaboration between government, utilities, and community organizations can achieve when we put people first. Together, we're building a more resilient, energy-efficient Delaware, one where no one is left behind.”
This agreement does not require legislation passing and funds will be distributed to Home Energy Check-Up and Counseling Program (HEC²) to applicants who earn up to 350% of the federal poverty level and are delinquent on their energy bills. The State of Delaware estimates nearly 20,000 Delawareans will be aided by the one-time cash infusion.
The Sustainable Energy Utility receives funds from "RGGI" a regional program that sets a cap on emissions with the company trading and making payments for excess levels. The program aims to give a company more flexibility in reducing pollution but has been blamed by some critics for keeping energy costs high.
The Sustainable Energy Utility offers energy audits, discounts on energy-saving equipment such as thermostats as well as loans on systems and equipment aimed at cutting utility bills
Republican legislators would like to see Delaware leave the program or distribute proceeds from the Sustainable Energy Utility to all ratepayers.
Government officials and others have warned about higher utility bills this summer, due to higher costs in recent power supply agreements.
Delaware is slated to enter a prolonged period of higher temperatures this week.
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