Keeping Rhode Island households comfortable, no matter how frigid the weather gets, is our No. 1 commitment. Our industry works every day to keep heating oil prices as manageable as possible. But as with all energy sources, heating oil’s price is affected by global market forces. We know that families may worry about paying their bills, especially during the coldest months of the year.
We encourage you to speak with your heating oil company, if you’re concerned about the cost of your fuel. They may be able to find a solution that works with your budget.
Rhode Island households may also be able to receive heating bill assistance from the programs below:
The United Way of Rhode Island has partnered with sponsoring energy companies for this cooperative effort to keep households warm throughout the Ocean State. The United Way administers a fund that has assisted tens of thousands of Rhode Island families in need. Households with income not exceeding 300% of the federal poverty level are eligible.
For more information, please visit the Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund site.
This federally funded and administered program provides grants to help Rhode Island families meet their energy expenses. It runs from November 1 to March 31 and is available to residents at or below 60% of Rhode Island’s median income.
If you’re worried about paying your heating season bills, LIHEAP can often provide help. Visit the LIHEAP website for more information.
One of the best ways to lower your heating costs is to invest in whole-house energy efficiency, and the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) can help. Low-income homeowners and tenants (with landlord approval) who qualify for LIHEAP and have not had an energy audit in the last 10 years are eligible for weatherization services.
You can learn more at the WAP website.
System improvements and upgrades can make your home’s heating much more efficient and save you money on fuel use. The Heating System Repair and Replacement Program (HSRRP) may provide a one-time equipment service to increase the system efficiency of owner-occupied, income-eligible households. If your equipment cannot be made more efficient — and if the system meets certain requirements — you could qualify for a replacement. To be eligible for this service, your household must qualify for LIHEAP.
You can begin the process of applying by contacting your local Community Action Program or visiting the HSRRP site.