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DC Public Service Commission Approves $20 Million for Energy Programs

On March 7, 2005 , the District of Columbia Public Service Commission approved $20 million for two-year energy efficiency, renewable and affordability programs. About $11.3 million of the $20 million will expand existing programs and support new efficiency and affordability programs for low income.

The two-year low-income bill assistance programs will be funded at about $2.1 million each year and will include an expansion of LIHEAP and a new arrearage forgiveness component in conjunction with the Residential Aid Discount (RAD).

More LIHEAP-eligible residents in the District will receive energy assistance and education about energy efficiency programs through funding of $850,000 per year. The RAD was previously expanded to include a discount to customers without electric space heating and will continue with a budget of $775,000 per year through 2007. A new arrearage forgiveness component is included in the expanded RAD and has a $500,000 annual budget.

Households eligible for RAD can also participate in low-income weatherization programs. The Commission approved about $3.5 million each year for two-year rehabilitation, comprehensive energy efficiency and appliance replacement pilot programs.

The programs are funded through the Reliable Energy Trust Fund (RETF), a public benefit fund that supports universal service for low-income and residential energy efficiency and renewable resources programs. The RETF is funded by a non-bypassable surcharge on residential Potomac Electric Power Company (PEPCO) bills.

Page Last Updated: January 27, 2010