For Immediate Release – July 10, 2013 CONTACT: Stephen Wark Vermont Gas 802-951-0373 (desk) 802-338-1792 (mobile) swark@vermontgas.com Natural Gas Rate for Lower-Income Vermont Gas Customers available on July 1, 2013 Qualified Vermont Gas customers could receive an additional 20% off their bill South Burlington, VT. – Effective July 1, 2013, lower-income Vermont Gas customers may qualify for a special rate that is 20% less expensive than the standard residential rate. The rate was created as a result of a Vermont Public Service Board initiative to help lower energy costs for the most financially vulnerable natural gas customers. The Vermont Gas residential rate is currently 45% less expensive than heating oil and 53% less expensive than propane. “Although natural gas rates are far lower than the cost of foreign heating oil or propane, this rate will help people who have a lower income save 20% off the current traditional rates,” said Stephen Wark, communications director for Vermont Gas. “This lower rate can really make a difference for Vermont Gas customers and families as they work to meet their other expenses”. “We have been publicizing the VT Gas discount program to those we serve since we first learned of this avenue for savings,” said Jan Demers, Executive Director of CVOEO. “With cuts in relief at the Federal and State level, the 20% discount off every monthly bill and the WARMTH Program will be even more essential to keep hard working low-income Vermonters warm this coming winter. We look forward to the expansion to Addison County so even more Vermonters will have access to low cost natural gas. We are grateful for both of these important efforts.” Eligibility for the program will be determined by the Vermont Department for Children and Families. The maximum gross monthly income is 185% of the federal poverty level based on household size. For example, the maximum gross income per month for a 3-person family is $3,011; add or subtract $620 per person for larger or smaller families. For an application or additional information about eligibility, please call the DCF Energy Assistance Office at 1-800-775-0516 after June 15, or visit their website at www.energyhelp.vt.gov Vermont Gas residential customers can save up to 45 percent ($2,000 per year) compared to fuel oil, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 26 percent. Vermont Gas’ long heritage for safe and reliable operations includes its award-winning energy-efficiency programs, which reduce energy use while saving $12 million annually for homes and businesses. For more information about the Addison Natural Gas Project, visit www.addisonnaturalgas.com
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P.O.Box 467, Burlington, Vermont 05402-0467 • 85 Swift Street, South Burlington, Vermont 05403 802-863-4511 • 800-639-8081 • www.vermontgas.com PDF of Full Vermont Gas Press Release View VT Gas Flyer For more information on how to apply for fuel assistance, click HERE or call 1800-775-0516. Green Mountain Power’s Energy Assistance Program provides discounted monthly rates for eligible customers. View Green Mountain Power Flyer