Con Edison: Customer Central - energy q&a

questions (and answers) about energy

Con Edison knows that customers have questions about what energy will cost this winter and how to cope with any changes in their bills. Here are some of the questions our customer service representatives answer all the time.

Q:	What will happen to energy prices this winter?
A:	Natural gas prices have been falling, and that’s good news for customers who use gas for heating. If winter temperatures are normal, we expect home heating bills will be about 12% lower than last year.

Q:	How can I reduce my heating costs? How can I keep my bill down?
A:	The best way to manage your heating costs is to conserve. For ideas on how you can stay warm in the coldest weather and save money on home energy costs, visit our The Power of Green Web site.

How can I better manage my energy bills?

Consider enrolling in our Level Payment Plan. With this free plan, Con Edison estimates your yearly energy costs and spreads your payments evenly throughout the year. That way, you have more control and are protected from seasonal cost peaks. With level payment, your monthly bill will still show your actual usage and the costs for your service for the billing period. We'll compare your bills and payments three times each year and, if your level payment amount is too high or too low, we'll let you know and change the amount on your next bill. For more information or to enroll, call 1-800-752-6633.

What assistance programs are available to help people with winter energy bills?

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) offers income-eligible people grants to help pay their energy bills. In New York City, call the HRA HEAP Hotline, 1-800-692-0557, or the HRA Infoline, 1-877-472-8411. New York City residents age 60 or older who received a HEAP grant last year are automatically eligible again this year. If you are age 60 or older and did not receive a HEAP grant last year, call 1-800-692-0557 for an application, or call 311. Westchester County residents should call the Department of Social Services, 1-914-995-5619.

If you are a Con Edison customer and receive a HEAP grant for another utility or oil company, you may be eligible for a reduced electric rate. To qualify, fax a copy of your HEAP grant award letter to 1-212-844-0110.

Income-eligible customers can also apply for a one-time grant from our EnergyShare fund, which is administered by HeartShare Human Services of New York and helps pay outstanding Con Edison bills. For information call 1-877-480-7427.

Q:	How does Con Edison keep energy costs down?
A:	To help manage the volatility in gas prices and keep costs as low as possible for its gas customers, Con Edison enters into short- and long-term contracts. Such arrangements help us secure adequate gas supplies for the winter at competitive prices.