New York has launched a statewide drive to enroll residents in the Energy Affordability Program, which could cut annual utility bills by up to $500 and may qualify about 2.5 million households. Eligibility is based on income falling below either the statewide median or the local median, expanding access to some middle-income families. The state has also earmarked $1 billion for energy relief and may provide up to $200 in one-time rebates to eligible households. Households can apply at NY.gov/EAP while advisers note that solar and battery storage can provide larger long-term savings.
New York Launches Statewide Drive To Cut Utility Bills Up To $500 For 2.5 Million Households
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New Yorkers are being urged to check their utility bills and apply for a state program that could reduce annual energy costs by up to $500. Governor Kathy Hochul has kicked off a statewide enrollment campaign for the Energy Affordability Program (EAP), which officials estimate could make roughly 2.5 million households eligible for bill discounts.
What The Program Offers
The Energy Affordability Program provides discounts on utility bills for qualifying households. State estimates suggest as many as 2.5 million households may now qualify under revised income thresholds. According to WABC, about 1 million New Yorkers have already applied.
Who Qualifies
Eligibility is determined by whether a household's income falls below either the statewide median or the median income for the household's specific area. This dual standard expands access and can bring some middle-income families into the program. For example:
- On Long Island, a five-person household can qualify with an income of up to $178,100.
- In New York City, a three-person household can qualify with an income of up to $145,800.
Other State Relief
The enrollment push comes as New York has set aside $1 billion for broader energy relief. Governor Hochul has said eligible households may also receive separate one-time rebate checks of up to $200 under that effort.
How To Apply
Households that believe they meet the updated income limits can apply through the state's portal at NY.gov/EAP. Eligibility depends on household size and the region where the household is located; the revised criteria mean some residents who were previously ineligible may now qualify.
Longer-Term Ways To Lower Energy Costs
Officials and independent advisers note that beyond short-term discounts, longer-term investments—such as rooftop solar panels and battery storage—can significantly lower household energy costs over time. Independent services can provide free estimates, local pricing comparisons and information on incentives. Adding battery storage can also help households ride out outages and manage when they use generated electricity.
"We also understand the enormous pressures that families and businesses are under, and we're helping do whatever we can," Governor Kathy Hochul said.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman criticized the plan, saying, "Kathy Hochul thinks we're stupid and we don't know that she's trying to buy votes because she knows that her utility bills have skyrocketed. Our utility rates are 70% higher than the national average. And what is she giving us? Peanuts."
Even modest annual savings—like those from the EAP—can matter for families juggling rent, groceries, transportation and child care. Residents should review their eligibility and consider both short-term relief and long-term energy upgrades to reduce bills over time.
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