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----The latest findings from Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, as summarized by Novogradac, point to a rental market that is stabilizing on the surface, but becoming structurally less affordable. Even as rent growth moderates and vacancies tick up, a growing share of renters are cost-burdened. This widening affordability gap leaves less room in household budgets for essential utilities like electricity, effectively increasing the share of income spent on energy. As a result, energy burden is rising not because utility rates alone are spiking, but because housing costs have already consumed a disproportionate share of income.
----This is precisely where Residential Aid Discount programs become critical. I wrote about these programs in December 2024, and in light of the Harvard findings, it is worth recirculating because they offer a direct, tangible benefit to residents (ie. lowering monthly utility bills, stabilizing household budgets, and reducing overall energy burden). I have also added a Resources Page to our website which I will be updating periodically. It is designed to support both property owners/managers and residents of Affordable Housing with practical, easy-to-use information. Here, you’ll find guidance on utility allowances, compliance insights, and tools to help optimize operations, along with resources for residents such as residential aid programs, utility discounts, and cost-saving opportunities. Since historically the income thresholds to qualify for LIHTC properties are usually below those to qualify for energy assistance programs, it would make most if not all residents eligible. Below is a list of just a few utility providers that participate in these programs with links to the programs in the states where Hedgerow is currently assisting clients. I have added a few more to the list since I last circulated. Spread the word!
Washington DC and Maryland Pepco Residential Aid Discount
North Carolina Duke Energy Customer Assistance Program (CAP)
Ohio Duke Energy Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Missouri Ameren Low-Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)
Missouri Evergy Low Income Energy Assistance Program
Michigan Consumers Affordable Resource for Energy (CARE)
Virginia Dominion Power PIPP — Percentage of Income Payment Program
Nevada SAFE (Northern Nevada), Nevada Energy Assistance Program, Senior Energy Assistance Expo (Southern Nevada)
Colorado Xcel Energy Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP)
Tennessee NES
New York RG&E The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Washington State PSE’s Bill Discount Rate
Seattle City Utility Discount Program (UDP)
Idaho Power of Compassion Payment Assistance
Utah Home Electric Lifeline Program (HELP)
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