Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel

During the winter heating season it is important for Ohioans to know about the programs that are available to help them stay connected to their electric, natural gas and telephone utilities. While most of the programs are targeted to helping households that are considered low income, the winter reconnect program helps any household that is facing disconnection of its electric or natural gas service. This is especially important as the winter heating season approaches. Consumers can apply for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), Emergency-HEAP or the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) to stay connected to their electric and natural gas services. Lifeline programs help consumers maintain or establish telephone service.

Below are links to information about the specific programs that Ohioans can use to stay connected.

Electric and Natural Gas

• Home Energy Assistance Program: 2008-2009 HEAP Guidelines

• Percentage of Income Payment Plan: 2008-2009 PIPP Guidelines

• Energy Disconnection and Reconnection

• Basics of the Electric PIPP Arrearage Crediting Program

• How to Pay Off Your Natural Gas PIPP Balance

• Staying connected with heating sources easier with variety of  Ohio’s assistance programs

Telephone

• Telephone Lifeline Programs in Ohio

• Know Your Rights: Telephone Disconnection and Reconnection

Additional assistance information can be found by visiting the "Utility Assistance" page. Consumers may want to visit the Ohio Department of Development’s Office of Energy Efficiency in order to learn more about the HEAP and PIPP programs.