FREDERICTON (GNB) – New Brunswickers are reminded that there are programs available to help them with their high energy bills during the cold winter months.

“New Brunswick has experienced frigid temperatures over the last month and with the cold comes higher energy bills to heat our homes,” said Finance Minister Cathy Rogers. “There are several programs available to help families with these bills.”

The programs available are:

  • The Home Energy Assistance Program is a one-time payment of $100 to households with a total income up to and including $30,000 in 2016. Individuals may obtain an application form online, by visiting any of the Service New Brunswick centres or by contacting the Department of Finance at 1-800-669-7070.
  • Any household that is in an emergency situation and unable to afford the cost of home heating may be eligible to receive the Emergency Fuel Benefit. The Department of Social Development will assess eligibility on a case-by-case basis.
  • There are also programs available for social assistance recipients who need help with the costs of winter heating. Recipients should speak to their Social Development case manager about the Fuel Supplement and Bulk Fuel Supplement.

“Our government is committed to helping families and children,” said Families and Children Minister Stephen Horsman. “I encourage New Brunswickers who are struggling with their energy bills to learn more about these programs to help keep their homes warm and safe this winter.”

Those interested in decreasing their energy consumption may also benefit from:

  • The Low-Income Energy Savings Program helps low-income homeowners reduce their energy use and costs by targeting homes in need of major energy efficiency upgrades. The program is administered by NB Power on a first-come, first-served basis based upon the availability of program funding.
  • A number of energy efficiency programs offered by NB Power to help customers control their monthly bills and reduce reliance on fossil-fuel including the Home Insulation Energy Savings Program, the Commercial Buildings Retrofit Program, the Small Business Lighting Program and the recently-launched Industrial Program, along with in-store rebates on eligible energy-efficient products every October and April.

New Brunswickers who are having a difficult time paying their energy bills should contact their provider to make mutually agreeable payment arrangements:

  • NB Power, 1-800-663-6272
  • Saint John Energy, 1-877-907-5550
  • Edmundston Energy, 506-739-2106
  • Perth-Andover Electric Light Commission, 506-273-4958

 

 

16-01-18