As temperatures drop and heating use increases, many customers may see higher energy bills during the winter months. Appalachian Power Company (APCo) offers energy-saving programs, bill assistance resources and flexible payment options that may help customers manage seasonal energy costs.
Reduce energy use this winter
Heating can account for a significant portion of a home's winter electricity use. Customers can help improve comfort and reduce energy use by:
- Maintaining heating systems
- Sealing air leaks around doors and windows
- Improving insulation
- Monitoring household energy use
Additional energy-saving tips are available at AppalachianPower.com/Save.
Energy-Efficiency Programs
Virginia customers can learn about energy-efficiency programs that may help lower energy use, improve home comfort and help reduce energy costs at TakeChargeVA.com. West Virginia customers can find similar resources at TakeChargeWV.com.
In both states, eligible customers may qualify for Low-Income Weatherization Assistance and Repair and Replace services for inoperable heating systems. Eligible Virginia customers may also qualify to receive free energy-efficiency kits to help lower energy use at home.
Find bill assistance programs
Several assistance programs are available throughout our service territory, including Neighbor to Neighbor assistance through Dollar Energy Fund and United Way's 211. Customers can dial 211 on their phone or visit 211.org to connect with local resources and learn about available utility assistance programs in their area.
Available programs may include:
- Tennessee: Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Virginia: LIHEAP and the Percentage of Income Payment Program (PIPP)
- West Virginia: Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) and the West Virginia 20% Discount Program
Program availability and eligibility requirements vary by state. Learn more at AppalachianPower.com/Assistance.
Flexible billing options
Customers can also take advantage of tools designed to make bills more predictable and manageable throughout the year.
- Average Monthly Payment (AMP): Our AMP plan helps spread seasonal energy costs more evenly across 12 months, reducing the impact of seasonal bill fluctuations.
- High Bill Alerts: High Bill Alerts notify customers through the email address listed on the account when energy use is trending higher than expected, helping customers take action before the bill arrives.
- Payment Arrangements: Customers who need additional flexibility may qualify for one-time payment extensions or extended payment agreements.
Customers are encouraged to explore available resources before winter bills arrive and to contact us as early as possible if they anticipate difficulty paying their bill.