Energy Assistance
LIHEAP
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), a federally-funded program, assists low-income homeowners and renters to meet the cost of home heating by providing a one-time payment to the heating utility. This program is not designed to pay your total winter heating cost.
(Available in Buena Vista, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Hamilton, Humboldt, O'Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Pocahontas, Webster & Wright counties.)
Weatherization
The Low-Income Weatherization Program improves the energy efficiency of homes to help families and individuals with limited income save money on their utility bills. An Energy Auditor will inspect and develop a weatherization plan for your home whether you own or rent.
(Available in Buena Vista, Cerro Gordo, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Hancock, Hamilton, Humboldt, Kossuth, O'Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Pocahontas, Webster, Winnebago, Worth & Wright counties.)
CRISIS ENERGY PROGRAMS
Availability varies by County and funding is very limited. Contact the UDMO office in your County to learn more.
Several programs assist families in crisis. Allowable measures address the following crisis situations: non-working furnace, temporary need for alternate shelter, disconnected from utility service, empty propane tank, disconnection from utility service imminent, propane tank less than 30% remaining, fans, and when medically necessary, provides a window air conditioning unit. Services depend on guidelines and vary depending on the program.
(Available in Buena Vista, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Hamilton, Humboldt, O'Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Pocahontas, Webster & Wright counties.)