PEARL RIVER, NY: Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc. has expanded its Energy Affordability Program (EAP), allowing more customers across its service area to qualify for gas and electric bill discounts.
The announcement was made Feb. 26 at the company’s headquarters in Pearl River. The expanded program broadens eligibility beyond customers currently enrolled in certain government assistance programs.
Under the previous structure, households were required to participate in designated public assistance programs to qualify for EAP discounts. With the expansion, households whose incomes fall below the state median income may now qualify, even if they are not enrolled in government assistance programs.
As of Feb. 23, the utility reported that 388 existing customers had received discounts through the expanded program.
Janette Espino, vice president of Customer Service for Orange and Rockland Utilities, said the company has long supported widening access to the program. She noted that rising living costs have placed additional pressure on many households, including those who may not meet the criteria for traditional government assistance but still face financial strain.
Eligibility for the expanded program varies depending on household size and income. Customers who qualify under the income-based criteria must apply directly for benefits and cannot already be enrolled in the existing EAP.
The company encourages customers to review eligibility requirements and apply through its Financial Assistance Programs page at https://www.oru.com/en/accounts-billing/payment-assistance/financial-assistance-programs.
