When higher energy bills hit Delawareans’ wallets this winter, many of those struggling were ineligible for the assistance available.  

Those who make 60% of the state’s median income or less qualify for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, but with costs rising across the board, more people are struggling to make ends meet.  

For a single person, the income limit for LIHEAP is $37,740, according to 2025 guidelines. 

That’s why Delaware House Rep. Debra Heffernan introduced House Bill 50, which funnels more money to LIHEAP while also creating a Delaware Energy Fund to aid households whose income is less than 350% of the federal poverty level. For a single-person household to qualify, they would need to make $54,775 or less. 

“One part of it adds money to the LIHEAP program that comes from the Alternate Compliance Program that Delmarva pays into,” Heffernan said. “The second part of the bill creates a new Delaware Energy Fund, which is going to be able to help customers with more moderate income.” 

The act would sunset three years after being enacted.  

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The infusion of additional funds to Delaware’s LIHEAP and the creation of a new heating assistance fund for moderate-income earners comes amid soaring energy costs in the First State caused by a combination of increased charges and greater energy use.  

Heffernan said the infusion of additional funds into LIHEAP is also important given the looming cuts to federal funding.  

Where does the legislation stand? 

The heating assistance bill was moved out of the House Natural Resources & Energy Committee on March 12 and was placed on the ready list for the full House of Representatives to vote on. 

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Once HB 50 has been acted on by the House, it will then move to the state Senate for consideration. 

The Delaware General Assembly is not in session this week as lawmakers host bond hearings.

Existing energy assistance 

Delaware offers several assistance programs for residents struggling with energy costs.  

The Delaware Energy Assistance Program is a federally funded program under LIHEAP that provides financial assistance to households for their energy bills. It also assists with energy crises, weatherization and energy-related home repairs. The state’s LIHEAP assistance is run through Catholic Charities of Wilmington. 

For Delaware households at or below 60% of Delaware’s median income seeking help with energy costs, the state offers these options: 

Winter Heating Fuel Assistance 

Homeowners and renters are eligible for help on home energy bills between Oct. 1 and March 31. Eligible sources include electricity, natural gas, oil, kerosene, propane, coal, and wood.  

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Crisis Assistance 

This assistance is available year-round and can be received in addition to seasonal fuel benefits. Households must show they are experiencing a crisis, such as having received a shut-off or disconnect notice or being behind on utility bills. 

Summer Cooling Assistance Program  

Households who have previously applied for LIHEAP, within the program year, that need help with offsetting the electrical costs to cool their home are eligible. The program also offers a single-room in-window air conditioner to those who can demonstrate a need. 

Weatherization Assistance Program 

This free program is administered by the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) and helps identify energy savings. It provides assistance in weatherproofing and improving energy efficiency in homes. Call (302) 735-3480 to learn more about the program.  

To apply to any of these programs, apply online or contact Catholic Charities or call the following numbers depending on your location for assistance: 

• New Castle County: (302) 654-9295
• Kent County: (302) 674-1782 
• Sussex County: (302) 856-6310 

Got a tip? Contact Amanda Fries at afries@delawareonline.com, or by calling or texting 302-598-5507.