Washington, DC – Today, four District agencies charged with serving DC utility consumers unveiled here2helpdc.dc.政府, which is designed to inform residents and 企业 about energy and money-saving initiatives to help them minimize the negative impacts of the (coronavirus) COVID-19 pandemic.
The website is a part of # Here2HelpDC, a public awareness campaign launched in June by the Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE), DC Public Service Commission (DCPSC), DC Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU), and the Office of the People's Counsel for the District of Columbia (OPC).
“Nine months after COVID-19 drastically changed how we live, 工作和娱乐, many people must still stay at home and consequently continue to use more electricity, 气体和水. 因此, the website says loud and clear that consumers must make a plan now and pay what they can to control utility costs,” said People’s Counsel Sandra Mattavous-Frye.
“Many District residents are unaware of assistance programs to help those impacted by the pandemic. Through # Here2HelpDC, utility consumers will learn where to go for help if they get behind on their utility bills ,” said Chairman of the DC Public Service Commission Willie L. 菲利普斯.
The website will complement the social and traditional media messages the four agencies have shared. The agencies cite tips and tools to help consumers conserve energy and water resources, reduce billing costs and use relief and payment programs.
“The District 政府ernment offers numerous programs that can help consumers manage their energy bills, and the # Here2HelpDC campaign and this new website is a great way for all of us to get the word out. As this pandemic continues, we want consumers to plan for the short-term by utilizing these programs to get their utility bills under control, then work with them to lower their overall energy costs for the long-term,” said DCSEU Director Ted Trabue.
"I’m proud of our track record, under Mayor Bowser's leadership, in eliminating the history of residents having to wait in long lines to receive energy assistance. And we've achieved this while consistently preventing our energy relief funds from running out each year. # Here2HelpDC builds on these unprecedented accomplishments, by streamlining access to critical services for our residents who need them most,” said DOEE Director Tommy Wells.
目前, legislation prohibits the disconnection of electric, 天然气, water and telecommunications services for non-payment of bills. Agency leaders are urging consumers to act now to take advantage of payment plans, financial assistance programs and rebates and incentives to help them save energy and money. To learn more, visit # Here2HelpDC.
Media Contacts:
Kellie Didigu, Communications Officer
kdidigu@psc.dc.政府
Doxie麦科伊, Public Information Officer
Office of the People’s Counsel
dmccoy@opc-dc.政府
本Burdick, Director of Marketing and Communications
bburdick@vachedeblues.com
妮可 Goines, Public Affairs Specialist
Department of Energy and Environment
妮可.goines1@dc.政府