Press Release

PGW encourages customers to enroll in payment assistance programs and apply for available grants

PHILADELPHIA, PA (March 13, 2020) – With the evolving response to the COVID-19 pandemic we understand that our customers may experience challenges or financial hardships as a result. Effective immediately, PGW is suspending non-payment terminations until May 1, 2020. PGW also plans to waive new late payment charges.

“PGW wants to support any of its customers that may be facing additional difficulties because of the COVID-19 pandemic and connect customers with the payment arrangements, programs, grants and other resources available to stay warm without worry,” says PGW CEO Craig White. “We are committed to assisting our customers so they can maintain gas service for heating their homes and providing meals for their families.”

PGW has a variety of assistance programs in place for customers to assist with their natural gas bill. Options like ‘Payment Arrangements’ (for when customers fall behind, or are worried they might) or ‘Budget Billing’ (which sets up a consistent pay amount each month) can make all the difference.

Other programs include:

·         Crisis: A federal grant awarded to customers without gas service, or with a 10-day shutoff notice. This grant can be combined with LIHEAP.

·         Customer Assistance Referral Evaluation Program (CARES): PGW’s CARES program provides payment assistance to residential customers with special circumstances. These might include medical emergencies, unemployment or other temporary hardships.

·         Customer Responsibility Program (CRP): Allows low-income customers to cut their monthly gas bill.

·         LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program): A free grant ranging from $200 - $1,000.

·         UESF (Utility Emergency Services Fund): A grant designed to pay off the balance of a customer’s unpaid utility bill and bring it to $0.

For low income customers LIHEAP funds are still available. The program closes April 10, 2020. If eligible, LIHEAP grants of up to $1,000 are available to both homeowners and renters. Customers can visit www.pgworks.com/liheap.  

Our goal is always to work with customers and give them as much support as we can, in order to keep their vital natural gas service on. Whether the need is temporary or ongoing, our experienced team regularly works with customers who are in tough financial situations. We may also be able to direct customers to other services and sources of financial support, even if we don’t have a program to fit their need. People can find out more at www.pgworks.com  or by following @MyPGW on Twitter.