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Once a household is found to be eligible for CEAP, the CAAs inform the utility companies and electric households are automatically enrolled in the Low-Income Discount Rate (LIDR) for further reductions in their electric bill. Based on the data sharing between the utilities and DSS, households eligible for DSS-administered benefits (such as SNAP) are automatically designated as financial hardship on gas and electric utility accounts in their name and will receive the LIDR on their electric utility account.

XII. PROGRAM DATES

For FFY 2026, program dates are as follows:

November 3, 2025 First day for fuel deliveries that can be paid by the program April 1, 2026 Deadline for fuel authorizations for deliveries May 29, 2026 Last day that a household can apply to establish its eligibility for benefits June 17, 2026 Last day to submit deliverable fuel bills

XIII. CONSERVATION SERVICES

In addition to receiving energy assistance benefits, eligible households may also qualify for the following conservation services:

A. Weatherization

Any household whose annual gross income is at or below 60% of the state median income guidelines is income eligible for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program administered by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). The application for CEAP services is also utilized to determine the household’s income eligibility for the weatherization program administered through DEEP. Weatherization services are provided through contracted entities with DEEP on a first come, first served basis, based on the availability of funds. Prioritization for weatherization services may be further prioritized for vulnerable households.

This Plan includes $500,000 in LIHEAP funding to DEEP to support its Residential Energy Preparation Services (REPS) program for the purpose of addressing health and safety barriers in the homes of CEAP eligible households that will allow access to weatherization services that improve the energy efficiency of the home, reduce future energy bills, and improve the health of residents. The funding includes $450,000 for program services and $50,000 for associated administrative costs. This important initiative leverages federal funding to address barriers to home weatherization, improve energy efficiency, and make homes safer for low-income families. Helping state residents to have a safe and warm home while reducing the state’s energy burden achieves key goals of the energy assistance program. DEEP may use the funds for other purposes that comply with the U.S. Department of Energy and LIHEAP weatherization requirements. DSS will retain oversight responsibilities for the funding.

B. Clean, Tune and Test

Upon request, funds will be provided to eligible deliverable fuel households to cover the cost of a clean, tune and test of their household’s deliverable fuel heating system. Renters must receive written permission from their landlord in order to receive this benefit. Costs for the clean, tune and test will be covered with funds set aside for the heating system repair or replacement component.

C. Heating System Repair or Replacement