Low-Income Energy Assistance Programs Extended in Kentucky

On September 14, the Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC) approved the continuation of energy assistance programs for low-income customers of Kentucky Utilities and Louisville Gas & Electric.

The programs, first approved by the PSC in November 2004 as three-year pilot programs, were set to expire October 1. The PSC extended the programs for 5 years and also extended a 10-cents-per-meter charge on residential bills that funds the programs.

Customers of Kentucky Utilities (KU) must use electric heat and have household income at or below 130% of federal poverty guidelines to participate. For the first three years, eligible KU customers will receive a fixed amount of $294 per year in seven monthly installments of $42 that are applied to the current bill. The credit will be applied to bills during peak heating and cooling months and cannot be used to reduce arrearages. For the last 2 years, the monthly benefit is set at $44 per applicable month not to exceed $308 per year. The dollar amount may vary each year based upon available funds in the program pool.

Louisville Gas & Electric (LG&E) customers with household income at or below 130% of federal poverty guidelines must have a minimum monthly household income of $100 and household utility arrearages under $1,000 to participate. The energy assistance program provides a year-round fixed credit that varies by month and is based on the household's income, size and utility bills for the previous 12 months, an adjustment for monthly normal heating degree days, and any significant changes in utility pricing. The credit can be applied to arrearages.

Customers of both utilities must apply for available weatherization programs and be enrolled in LIHEAP to participate. The programs are expected to serve about 900 LG&E customers and 1,400 KU customers.

Source: PSC Orders for KU and LG&E

Page Last Updated: January 10, 2008