Operated by the New Hampshire Office of Energy Planning and Fuel Assistance, the state energy assistance program works in conjunction with the federal government to offer home energy grants. In coordination with the Federal Health and Human Services Department, local community Action Agencies work directly with low income households to review applications and distribute grants to subsidize the costs of winter heating.
As a result of the cold winters in the state, New Hampshire extends additional subsidies for at risk households, including elderly, disabled, low income and young families. The particular grants factor in a variety of variables, including income, expected energy costs, regional weather and domicile in order to estimate the grants, which can range from $120 to nearly $1,000, depending on the circumstances. Each year, the state collects applications through local Community Action Agencies, although certain individuals on public assistance may automatically qualify for enrollment. In order to apply, you just have to contact the nearest Community Action Center and follow up with a visit to provide the requisite documentation for your application.
Last year, nearly 37,000 households qualified for fuel assistance grants through the state, while others qualified for emergency assistance. The state Office of Energy and Planning has created a “Stay Warm New Hampshire” program which provides guidance to households to help improve energy efficiency, through weatherization programs, as well as connecting low income households with budgeting and subsidized energy plans to alleviate the high costs of winter heating bills. In particular, the programs can help setup a graduated payment plan which can make winter heating bills pro-rated throughout the year.
With energy savings programs and grants for residential homes and businesses alike, the state has increased its focus on improving energy efficiency and green standards. Under the “Save Energy” programs, the state helps connect property owners with resources to improve the efficiency of their energy use in a variety of capacities. State grants toward renewable energy, as well as grant programs for green building, can help companies and households to stay ahead of the curve. Check with the state Office of Energy and Planning to see what grants and subsidies you may qualify for when considering improving the efficiency of your building construction or appliances. In addition to these direct savings, you can lower your monthly bill by investing in household features which are rated as highly energy efficient by the federal Energy Star program. Many households can save up to 20% of their monthly spending through smart upgrades to their insulation, windows and doors, as well as appliances; older households may even realize steeper improvements in their overall energy use.
Given the relatively cold winters in New Hampshire, state residents can turn to local and state government in order to help make winter heating bills more affordable through a variety of means. The state even offers short-term financing and bill payment arrangements to ensure that winter heating bills are affordable and structured in a way that ensures households can weather the winter. All state residents should check with their local Community Center to see which programs they may qualify for.
