Dollar Energy Fund’s Pennsylvania Hardship Program provides assistance grants to Duquesne Light Company customers that are applied directly to their utility bill. Funding is available on a first come, first serve basis and eligibility requirements vary based on the utility company. Program guidelines and eligibility requirements are subject to change.
If applicants are eligible and programs are open, applicants must apply for LIHEAP and CRISIS before applying for the Dollar Energy Fund Hardship Program.
Applicants must have paid at least $50 on their accounts in the past three months. CAP customers must have paid at least one CAP payment on their accounts in the past three months.
Exceptions may be made in cases of extreme hardships.
Hardship Fund balance requirements will not be imposed during 2023.
Applicants can receive two grants per calendar year for 2022 and 2023.
Applicants with an electric furnace or heat pump may be eligible to receive up to $1,000 per grant (maximum $2,000 in 2022 and 2023). Applicants with non-electric heating may be eligible to receive up to $500 per grant (maximum $1,000 in 2022 and 2023).
Grant awards are based on need and each family’s circumstances are different. Grant amounts are determined on a case-to-case basis
Total gross household income must be at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. Use our Income Calculator, or the chart below, to find out if your gross (before tax) income is within the range of eligibility for the program.
Household Size | 300% Monthly | 300% Yearly |
1 | $3,645 | $43,740 |
2 | $4,930 | $59,160 |
3 | $6,215 | $74,580 |
4 | $7,500 | $90,000 |
5 | $8,785 | $105,420 |
6 | $10,070 | $120,840 |
7 | $11,355 | $136,260 |
8 | $12,640 | $151,680 |
Each add’l add | $1,285 | $15,420 |
The best way to start seeking help is by calling your utility company. They will provide you with information on a number of different assistance programs that are available to help low-income utility customers. Dollar Energy also partners with a network of Community Based Organizations throughout the state to provide application intake services for clients. Find an agency in your area with Dollar Energy Fund’s Agency Finder.
The best way to start seeking help is by calling your utility company. They will provide you with information on a number of different assistance programs that are available to help low-income utility customers. Dollar Energy also partners with a network of Community Based Organizations throughout the state to provide application intake services for clients. Find an agency in your area with Dollar Energy Fund’s Agency Finder.