May 3, 2013 — According to the American Gas Association, natural gas utilities provided nearly $1.1 billion in energy assistance for low-income customers in 2011. The association reported the funding in three categories: rate assistance, energy efficiency, and fuel funds.
"No one should need to choose between heating or cooling their home and other basic human needs," said Association CEO Dave McCurdy. "Utilities are providing help with bill payments and home weatherization, and are sponsoring fundraising efforts. We are proud of our member companies' dedication in helping to ensure that vulnerable customers are able to meet their energy needs."
The utilities contributing data account for 79 percent of the natural gas delivered to customers in the United States. The data includes utilities just providing gas, along with companies providing combination gas and electric service. The American Gas Association released a more extensive report on energy efficiency earlier this year, the 2011 Natural Gas Efficiency Programs Report.
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Natural Gas Low-Income Assistance: 2011
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Rate Assistance
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Energy Efficiency
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Fuel Funds
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Total
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Assistance Expenditure
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$853,940,675
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$208,532,637
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$20,473,041
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$1,082,946,353
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| Source: American Gas Association | ||||
Sources: American Gas Association
