PUC Urges Consumers: ‘Call Utilities Now’ to Stay Warm, Safe, and Connected This Winter

PUC Urges Consumers: 'Call Utilities Now' to Stay Warm, Safe, and Connected This Winter

Published on 11/3/2025

Filed under: Electric Gas

Commission Highlights Utility Cooperation to Protect LIHEAP Households During Funding Delays

HARRISBURG - As colder weather settles across Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is urging consumers to act early if they are worried about paying winter heating bills.

Rising energy costs, unpredictable weather, and uncertainty about federal assistance programs - including the delayed start of the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), coupled with uncertainty about federal funding levels - are creating new challenges for households across the state, especially for families who have relied on LIHEAP grants to stay connected to essential utility services.

"This winter may look different for a lot of Pennsylvanians," PUC Chairman Steve DeFrank said. "While the delayed start of LIHEAP continues to be a concern, I want to reassure families that utilities across Pennsylvania have told the PUC they have no intention of terminating service for LIHEAP-eligible customers during this current gap period. At the same time, we encourage every household to contact their utilities now - to talk about available affordability options, payment plans and other programs that can reduce stress before winter fully sets in."

The Commission emphasized that this proactive approach by utilities reflects ongoing discussions between the PUC and energy companies across the Commonwealth. The Commission will continue to closely monitor affordability issues and consumer impacts statewide as winter progresses, to ensure that vulnerable households remain safe, warm, and connected.

"The message this winter is clear," said PUC Vice Chair Kim Barrow. "If you're facing new financial challenges or worried about an upcoming bill, reach out early. There are programs in place - and people ready to help - but it starts with that first call to discuss the challenges your household is facing. The most important thing consumers can do right now is start that conversation about affordability options."

PUC Reinforces Message to Utilities and Consumers

In a recent letter sent to the CEOs of Pennsylvania's heat-related utilities, the five PUC Commissioners called on energy companies to be "proactive, flexible, and compassionate" in working with customers this winter - emphasizing early outreach, coordination with community partners, and clear communication about available programs.

"We also want to reach those who may not have needed help before," added Commissioner Katie Zerfuss. "Even if your circumstances have just changed, your utility may have options that make a real difference. There's nothing to lose in asking - and a lot to gain from knowing your choices."

Pennsylvania's utilities collectively dedicate hundreds of millions of dollars each year in universal service programs - including Customer Assistance Programs (CAPs), budget billing, weatherization, and hardship funds. These programs are designed to help eligible households reduce energy use, lower monthly costs, and stay connected, even during difficult times.

Termination Pause and Winter Moratorium

The PUC's ongoing conversations with major electric and natural gas utilities have made clear that LIHEAP-eligible households will not face service termination for non-payment during the period between the traditional start of the LIHEAP season, on November 1, and the beginning of the Commission's winter termination moratorium on December 1.

"Pennsylvania's electric and gas utilities are stepping up to help." said Commissioner Ralph V. Yanora. "Affected consumers can and should work with their utility providers to ensure that their family remains connected to essential services. For those new to these programs, the PUC can help you connect to assistance."

The Commission applauds these proactive commitments by utilities and will continue to monitor winter termination data, outreach activity, and affordability trends to ensure that at-risk households remain protected throughout the season.

"We recognize the challenges that this winter may bring - not just for consumers, but also for the utilities that serve them," the five PUC Commissioners said in a joint letter to utilities. "By working together, sharing information early, and connecting families with available programs, we can help keep Pennsylvanians safe, warm, and connected during the months ahead."

Your Winter Energy Checklist: Simple Steps to Save and Stay Connected

To help consumers prepare for colder months, the PUC encourages everyone to take these simple steps:

1. Review your utility bills. Understand your current rate and usage - and how colder weather can increase demand.
   
   
2. Don't wait to call. If you're worried about paying your bill, contact your utility now to ask about assistance programs or payment plans.
   
   
3. Ask about affordability programs. Utilities offer programs like CAPs, budget billing, and hardship funds that can reduce your monthly costs.
   
   
4. Make small energy-saving changes. Lower your thermostat by one or two degrees, check furnace filters, and seal drafts - small actions that add up.
   
   
5. Explore energy-saving tools. Visit com and PAGasSwitch.com for energy tips, shopping options, and more ways to save.
   
   

Staying Warm, Safe, and Connected

Consumers who cannot resolve issues directly with their utility can contact the PUC's Bureau of Consumer Services at 1-800-692-7380 for help or more information about available programs.

"This is a season for partnership - between utilities, customers, and communities," Chairman DeFrank concluded. "Together, we can make sure no Pennsylvanian is left out in the cold."

About the PUC

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

Visit the PUC's website at puc.pa.gov for recent news releases and video of select proceedings. You can also follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. Search for the "Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission" or "PA PUC" on your favorite social media channel for updates on utility issues and other helpful consumer information.

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