Atlantic City Electric Offers Important Energy Saving Tips

Winter is officially here. As even colder temperatures can be expected through the coming months, leading to increased energy usage and potentially higher bills, Atlantic City Electric is committed to helping all customers use less energy by providing energy efficiency information to help keep bills as low as possible during the current cold snap and throughout the winter season. The company also continues to encourage customers to take advantage of millions of dollars in energy assistance available across New Jersey.

Atlantic City Electric recognizes customers may use more energy than expected as temperatures get colder, and some continue with a hybrid work schedule. Atlantic City Electric offers the following tips to help reduce energy use and costs:

  • Check your thermostat. Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter, if health permits. You can save about two percent on your heating bill for every degree you lower your thermostat. When you are asleep or out of the house, try turning your thermostat back 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours to save approximately 10 percent on your heating bill. Consider investing in a smart thermostat that can connect to your mobile devices, helping you stay on top of your energy usage.
  • Unplug your devices. Mobile phones, laptops and other electronic devices will continue to use energy after they are fully charged.
  • Adjust your blinds. Keep your blinds up during the day to capture the radiant heating benefits of the sun. Close your blinds and curtains after the sun goes down to keep the cold air out and the heat in.
  • Install energy efficient light bulbs. Energy-efficient LED bulbs use up to 75 percent less energy than standard bulbs.
  • Check for air leaks. Check the ductwork for air leaks about once a year if you have a forced-air heating system. To do this, feel around the duct joints for escaping air when the fan is on.
  • Insulate your home. Trap escaping air from windows and doors by using caulking or weather-stripping around leaky areas, install storm windows in winter and close chimney flues.
  • Adjust hot water heater. Lowering the temperature on your water heater/hot water tank can help save money and energy.
  • Dust or vacuum radiators. Dust and grime impede the flow of heat. Keeping radiators clean helps maintain their efficiency.
  • Maintain home heating equipment. Have your heating equipment serviced periodically by a professional service representative.
  • Look for the ENERGY STAR® label on home appliances, electronics, and other products. ENERGY STAR® products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy.

Customers can also manage their bill through My Account, Atlantic City Electric’s online energy management tool that shows how much energy a customer is using. More information is available for customers at atlanticcityelectric.com/MyAccount.

Atlantic City Electric is committed to helping to keep every customer connected by offering payment arrangements as well as programs that can help customers manage their monthly energy bill, including Budget Billing, which averages payments over a 12-month period. The company also offers energy efficiency programs and energy saving information to help customers reduce their energy usage. Information regarding these programs can be found at atlanticcityelectric.com/WaysToSave.

Community Cleanup Day - Monday, January 15th

Let's make a Difference!  Please join us on Community Cleanup Day, Monday, January 15th from 9 AM to 12 PM at the Municipal Complex.  

 

Flyer for MLK Cleanup

ACUA Town Hall Meeting Recording

Below is an audio recording of the meeting that took place on January 11, 2024, with the ACUA regarding the landfill odors (audio begins around 13 seconds).

 

If the media player does not display below, please click here.

Winter Saving Tips from Atlantic City Electric

Winter brings colder temperatures, which leads to increased energy use and higher energy bills. Atlantic City Electric reminds customers to take advantage of billing assistance programs, including the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, a federally funded program that helps limited-income households with their home energy bills. Customers should not wait for winter heating bills to arrive before applying for help – LIHEAP is a first come, first serve program and is only available until funding runs out.   

LIHEAP provides grants in varying amounts (up to $931) with no payback required, based on a household's income, type of fuel and type of dwelling. Homeowners, renters, roomers, and subsidized housing tenants may also be eligible. Customers do not have to be behind on their bills to receive a grant.

South Jersey customers can apply for LIHEAP energy assistance through the Department of Community Affairs website, by contacting their local LIHEAP Agency, or by calling 800-510-3102. Residents also can access the Department of Community Affairs self-screening tool to help determine what energy assistance benefits they may qualify for.

With winter weather officially here, customers should prepare for potential spikes in energy bills as we warm our homes and businesses.  Atlantic City Electric understands that rising energy costs and inflation continue to impact our customers and the upcoming holiday season brings additional pressures. We are here to help and remain committed to supporting those facing difficulties through payment and energy assistance programs.”

If customers do not meet LIHEAP requirements and are having difficulty paying their energy bills, Atlantic City Electric Customer Care is also available to help by offering:

  • Flexible payment arrangements that offer tailored payment plans
  • Extending payment periods for balances
  • Connecting customers with energy assistance funds
  • Budget Billing, which averages payments over a 12-month period and helps avoid seasonal spikes and provides a consistent monthly bill. 

Customers can contact Atlantic City Electric at 800-642-3780 or visit atlanticcityelectric.com/EnergyAssistance for more information.

Other programs assisting Atlantic City Electric customers include:

  • The Universal Service Fund (USF) helps ensure energy bills are more affordable for eligible customers. Eligibility requirements for USF recently changed providing customers who previously may not have been eligible to now participate. The Fresh Start arrearage forgiveness portion of the program also is now open to past participants. Call 800-510-3102 or visit energyassistance.nj.gov for information.
  • New Jersey SHARES is a nonprofit corporation that provides assistance to income eligible customers. Visit njshares.org or call 866-657-4273.
  • The Payment Assistance for Gas and Electric (PAGE) program provides relief on natural gas and electric bills for limited-to moderate-income customers experiencing a temporary financial crisis. Customers can call 732-982-8710 or visit njpoweron.org.
  • Lifeline is a utility assistance program that offers $225 to persons who meet certain income guidelines. Utility customers as well as tenants whose utility bills are included in their rent can call 800-792-9745 for details.