As temperatures drop, home heating costs start to rise.
Employees at National Grid say they are available to help customers afford their electric bills.
“We do not want to turn the power off, so we do offer a lot of options,” says Kari Kelly, a National Grid consumer advocate.
National Grid has a number of programs, such as the Care and Share fuel fund, which provides $200 who meet HEAP guidelines, and the Energy Affordability Program, which includes monthly bill credits.
Consumer advocates also work with local organizations to find other programs that might help.
“We do work closely with a lot of local agencies like Catholic Charities to make sure we know what is available that they’re offering, and we can refer the appropriate customers to receive those services,” Kelly said.
Kelly started working at National Grid just before the pandemic and has a background in social work. For her, this is critical in getting people through tough times.
“Being able to restore some of that hope and knowing that there is help out there, and they can get back up to a normal standing with their bills and everything else is really nice to see,” said Kelly.
Those seeking assistance can contact consumer advocates by calling 1-800-642-4272 or emailing ConsumerAdvocatesUNY@nationalgrid.com.
