Atlantic City Electric expands customer relief fund to combat rising winter energy costs

Atlantic City Electric on Thursday announced a significant expansion of its Customer Relief Fund, injecting an additional $500,000 to help South Jersey residents navigate the financial strain of peak winter heating season.

The infusion brings the total assistance available through the fund to $4.5 million over the past year. In a move to provide more impactful relief, the maximum one-time grant amount has been increased from $300 to $500 for eligible households.

Importantly, the utility noted that customers who previously received the original $300 grant will automatically receive a credit for the difference (up to the new $500 limit) on their accounts, requiring no additional action.

The expansion is a collaborative effort with nonprofit partner SHARES and is funded by Exelon, Atlantic City Electric’s parent company. The initiative arrives as families face the dual challenge of sub-freezing temperatures and escalating energy supply costs.

“We know rising energy supply costs are putting real strain on families, especially during these cold winter months,” Tyler Anthony, president and CEO of Pepco Holdings said. “Our goal is to be a steady source of support that our customers can count on… helping even more customers manage today’s challenges.”

Cheryl Stowell, CEO of SHARES, added that the additional funding allows the nonprofit to broaden its reach to families who often find themselves just above the threshold for traditional state aid but are still struggling to keep up with monthly bills.

The fund is designed to support both limited-income and moderate-income customers who meet specific criteria.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Active Account: Must be an active Atlantic City Electric residential customer.

• Arrearages: Must have a past-due balance of at least $250.

• Income Levels: Households must meet income guidelines (detailed at atlanticcityelectric.com/Relief).

• Prior Assistance: Limited-income applicants should be qualified for federal or state energy assistance programs.

Beyond the Customer Relief Fund, Atlantic City Electric offers several year-round resources to help manage volatility in energy bills:

• Assistance Finder: An online tool providing personalized recommendations for aid.

• Budget Billing: Evenly distributes energy costs over 12 months to avoid seasonal spikes.

• Payment Arrangements: Flexible, individually tailored installment plans for those in debt.

• Energy Efficiency Grants: Programs like NJ Comfort Partners that provide free weatherization for income-eligible homes.

To apply or check eligibility, customers can visit atlanticcityelectric.com/Relief or call 800-642-3780.