Assistance with Winter Energy Costs

Wisconsin low income and minority households and households with income from farms, factories, and offices may need assistance with energy costs. From November 1st through April 15th, Wisconsin utility companies, by law, cannot shut off electricity or heat if bills are not paid. Households that fall within qualifying income ranges can apply to the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) for assistance. WHEAP provides one benefit payment per heating season to help households pay a portion of their heating and electric bills, whether they use wood, propane, natural gas, electricity, or fuel oil. Also, residents can work out a deferred payment agreement or a budget billing agreement with their utility company to better manage their bills.

Funding for WHEAP comes from federal and state sources and is managed by the Wisconsin DOA / PSC Office of Energy Innovation. All utilities are included in the state’s public benefits program, except for those that operate their own Commitment-to-Community program. To find a local energy assistance program contact, go to the map on Home Energy Plus or call 1-866-HEATWIS.

Households also can apply to the Wisconsin Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) to install insulation, seal air leaks, and replace inefficient fixtures and appliances. Other programs include Crisis Assistance and Furnace Assistance. homeenergy+JSonline