Energy assistance opens for Guam households as fuel prices rise

As global oil prices climb, qualifying Guam households may soon get help paying their power bills.

Adelup announced the launch of Guam’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, which helps income-eligible residents cover home energy costs.

Under the program, qualifying households facing disconnection from the Guam Power Authority may receive up to $1,000 in utility debt relief through the Crisis Assistance Program.

The program is funded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and implemented locally by the Guam Energy Office through a $742,930 allocation awarded to the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services, Adelup says.

The announcement comes as conflict in the Middle East pushes global oil prices higher, a trend that can affect electricity costs on Guam where power generation relies heavily on imported fuel.

Applications for crisis assistance open March 16 and will be accepted through Aug. 14, or until funds are exhausted.

A separate Cooling Assistance Credit Program will provide a $100 credit spread over five months from April through August to help offset power bills during the island’s hottest months.

Applications for that credit will be accepted March 16 through March 27 on a first come, first served basis, according to Adelup.

Guam Energy Office Director Rebecca Respicio said the program has helped more than 1,300 households over the past two years.

Applications will be available beginning March 16 at the Guam Energy Office at 548 N. Marine Corps Drive in Tamuning. Adelup says completed applications must be submitted in person between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. with required documents.

Payments for approved applicants will be made directly to the Guam Power Authority. Residents can call 671-646-4361 for more information.