Power Bill Assistance Available for Virginia Residents

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WINCHESTER, VA - Virginia residents can currently receive assistance on their energy bills.

According to the Virginia Department of Social Resources, the Percentage of Income Payment Program (PIPP) is helping low-income households in Virginia manage their energy bills, making it more affordable to maintain electric service year-round.

The program, available to customers of Dominion Energy and Appalachian Power Company (APCo/AEP), ensures that eligible households pay a reduced monthly bill based on their income and primary heat source, according to the Virginia Department of Social Resources.

For households using electric heat, the monthly payment is set at 10% of income, while those using other heat sources pay 6%.

To qualify for PIPP, households must have an active electric account with Dominion Energy or APCo/AEP and meet income requirements, with household income at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines.

The program also helps customers eliminate past-due balances—each month a customer makes their full payment on time, 1/12 of their outstanding balance is forgiven. After 12 consecutive on-time payments, the entire previous balance is cleared, according to the Virginia Departmet of Social Services.

In addition, qualifying participants are eligible for a free home energy audit to help reduce future energy usage.

Residents can apply for PIPP online or through their local department of social services, with re-verification of income required annually.

For more details, Dominion Energy and APCo/AEP customers can visit their respective websites.