OCTOBER 18, 2007

DC Residents Can Apply For Energy Assistance at Joint Utility Discount Day

On Wednesday, October 31, 2007, the District Department of the Environment (DDOE) along with their partners, the Public Service Commission (PSC), Office of the People's Counsel (OPC) and the four DC utilities -- Pepco, Washington Gas, WASA and Verizon are hosting Joint Utility Discount Day (JUDD) at the Washington Convention Center. For nearly two decades, the groups have joined forces to sponsor this event which allows low-income DC residents to apply for financial assistance with energy bills as well as take advantage of home weatherization services and discounts offered by the four utilities.

Each year nearly 7,000 low-income DC residents participate in JUDD to learn how to maintain healthy and affordable households. District residents in need are encouraged to apply at the DC Convention Center from 8am to 7pm. The address is 801 Mt. Vernon Place, NW.

DDOE is currently accepting emergency applicants whose Pepco or Washington Gas service has been disconnected or they are out of heating oil. Emergency applicants must bring the disconnection notice, proof of household income, most recent utility bills, and a picture ID. Then on November 19, 2007, eligible residents may apply for energy assistance and discounts through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

For more information or to schedule an appointment, interested persons should call DDOE's Energy Hotline at (202) 673-6750.