 National Center for Appropriate Technology 3040 Continental Drive Butte, MT 59702 406.494.8662 Fax 406.494.2905 |
Low-Income Montanans Get Increased Heating AssistanceOn December 21, the Montana Public Service Commission agreed to a stipulation requested by low-income, senior, and conservation advocates and NorthWestern Energy that will increase the NorthWestern low-income bill assistance discount program for this heating season. On a one-time basis, $621,274 will be used to help eligible low-income Montanans pay their monthly gas and electric heating bills. The bill discount program enables eligible gas and electric consumers to receive a percentage discount on their monthly gas and electric bills. The $621,274 will increase the current 15 percent low-income gas and electric consumer discount to 25 percent. Assuming normal weather and normal energy demands, the increased bill discount will remain in effect until early May and then revert to its current level. The $621,274 are Universal System Benefit (USB) Funds. The USB program was established by the Montana Legislature in 1997 and provides funding for various public purposes, including conservation, renewable resource development, and low-income assistance. Page Last Updated: January 27, 2010 |
