New York is expanding its push to lower household utility costs, with Governor Kathy Hochul urging residents to check whether they now qualify for the state’s Energy Affordability Program. The program, known as EAP, offers monthly discounts designed to reduce the share of household income spent on utility bills.
During a Sept. 16 visit with residents at the Flatbush YMCA in Brooklyn, Hochul said roughly 1 million households are already enrolled and the state estimates about 2.5 million more may now be eligible. The governor’s office said recent eligibility changes are intended to reach more middle-income households that previously may not have qualified.
What the Energy Affordability Program does
The Energy Affordability Program provides recurring monthly discounts on gas and electric bills for qualifying customers of participating utilities. According to the governor’s office, the program is structured so a typical utility bill for an enrolled household is generally kept below about 6 percent of household income.
State officials say annual savings can reach several hundred dollars, depending on household income, utility service and eligibility level. Hochul said some households could save up to about $500 over a year.
“We know the stress that families are under,” Hochul said during the Brooklyn event, according to a rush transcript released by her office.
Who may qualify
Eligibility depends on income, household size and participation in certain public-benefit programs. The state is encouraging New Yorkers who were previously above the income limit to check again because the eligibility rules have been broadened.
Residents can review eligibility information and enrollment instructions through the New York State Department of Public Service. People should use official state and utility websites rather than providing personal information to unsolicited callers or messages.
Why this matters in Central New York
Although Hochul highlighted the program during a Brooklyn visit, the Energy Affordability Program is statewide. That means eligible customers in Utica, Rome, Herkimer, Oneida County and elsewhere in the Mohawk Valley may qualify if they meet the program rules.
Energy costs remain a recurring household expense, especially during Central New York winters. Monthly discounts can be more useful than a one-time credit because they reduce bills on an ongoing basis.
Other affordability aid
Hochul also referenced separate state affordability payments that are being mailed to eligible New Yorkers. Those payments are distinct from EAP and have their own eligibility rules. Residents should not assume qualification for one program automatically means qualification for another.
For the Energy Affordability Program, the clearest next step is to check the official state information page and contact your utility if you have questions about enrollment.
What residents should do
- Check whether your household meets current EAP eligibility rules.
- Contact your utility if you believe you qualify but are not receiving a discount.
- Use official state and utility websites to avoid scams.
- Keep benefit and income documentation available in case verification is required.
The state says enrollment efforts will continue as officials try to reach households that qualify but are not yet receiving the discount.
