|
Energy Crisis period now in effect at the Office of Home Energy Programs
November 1 through March 31 is designated as the Energy Crisis period at the Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP). During the Energy Crisis period, energy crisis applications are expedited.
An energy crisis is defined as where a household has no heat, a shortage of fuel supply, or an imminent utility turn-off (less than 3 days) during the period between November 1 through March 31. A household may apply for energy crisis assistance during this period by applying at their local OHEP office.
-
For incomplete applications, the 18-48-hour clock begins when the signed application, the crisis application, and Crisis Season Declaration Form are received. This is the only documentation required for a customer to receive a crisis benefit or utility commitment. The OHEP application may be pended, and a request for additional information will be given for all other supporting documents. The Crisis Season Form contains an agreement that the customer will return with the missing documents or OHEP will need to collect the benefits (EUSP, MEAP, Crisis) back from the customer. Do not forget to turn in the documents, otherwise the customer will end up repaying back the benefit. It is important to return the documents!
-
For complete applications, the 18-48-hour clock begins when the signed application and complete documentation are received. The Crisis Season Declaration Form is not needed.
Crisis Season Declaration Form
OHEP application
Not sure how to complete the OHEP application? Watch this video!
|
|
Free training
The Office of People's Counsel offers free in-person and virtual training to organizations. If you help your clients manage their finances, these sessions are a good fit. Trainings cover topics like:
- Energy assistance deep dive
- How to fill out an energy assistance application
- Energy assistance 101
- Retail supplier issues
- Utility customer rights
- Weatherization programs
- Inflation Reduction Act
- How to read utility bills
- And many other utility topics
Reach out to brandi.nieland@maryland.gov or simply reply to this email to talk about what you want to learn more about and schedule a free training for your organization.
|
|
Upcoming Critical Medical Needs Navigator trainings
The Critical Medical Needs Program (CMNP) expedites energy assistance to continue or restore utility services for customers who are medically vulnerable. The CMNP is administered by the Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP) in partnership with Certified Navigators throughout the state. In addition to reducing barriers to the energy assistance application process for individuals who are medically vulnerable, the CMNP coordinates with the Department of Housing and Community Development for energy-efficiency programs and heating/cooling-system repair/replacement programs.
In order for a person to participate in the CMNP, they must have a Certified Navigator to submit their application through the CMNP process. OHEP offers a free 1-hour training to individuals who are interested in becoming a Certified Navigator to assist their clients.
The next trainings are scheduled for:
Friday, November 22, 2024 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Thursday, January 16, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Sign up here.
|
|
 |
|
In addition to our work in the courts and in front of regulatory bodies, we also offer informational webinars on a variety of topics that impact you and your utility bill.
In the new year, what would you like our office to put more information out about?
Email your ideas to opc@maryland.gov
|
|
|
Maryland has launched a new program to expand solar use on commercial buildings in underserved communities
The Maryland Energy Administration Commercial Solar Grant Program ("CSGP," "the Program") will provide grants for solar PV systems installed at Maryland businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations, that will be owned by or directly benefit low-to-moderate income communities or overburdened or underserved communities. These solar PV systems can help reduce organizational operational costs and improve their sustainability, which can help them better serve the communities that surround them.
Learn more about this expanded commercial solar program.
|
|
For questions or assistance, contact Brandi Nieland, Director of Consumer Assistance at brandi.nieland@maryland.gov. |
|
|
Your People's Counsel is David S. Lapp. Our team is here to help and advocate for you. We represent Maryland residential customers before the Public Service Commission and federal agencies, and we provide you assistance dealing with your utility issues, including affordable and reliable service.
To see what OPC is currently working on, click here for our recent press releases or click here for our media coverage.
|
|
|
|
