Utility Company Unveils Million One-Time Customer Assistance Fund
PECO Launches Million Customer Relief Fund to Assist Low- and Moderate-Income Families Amid Rising Energy Costs
Published on August 5, 2025 by Liz Carey
The Philadelphia Electric Company (PECO) has unveiled a significant initiative aimed at alleviating the financial burden faced by low- and moderate-income families in the wake of rising energy costs. On Thursday, the utility company announced the establishment of the PECO Customer Relief Fund, a one-time financial assistance program totaling million to support community members in Southeastern Pennsylvania experiencing energy bill challenges this summer.
Administered by the United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, the fund will provide qualifying PECO customers with one-time grants of 0. This initiative is underpinned by support from Exelon, PECO’s parent company, and is specifically designed to offer immediate financial relief to those grappling with inflationary pressures affecting daily living expenses, including energy bills.
David Vahos, PECO’s president and CEO, articulated the company’s commitment to supporting the community during these trying times: “PECO has deep roots in our community and we’re proud to do our part during this challenging time as local families struggle with overall inflation pressures, including energy bills,” Vahos stated. He emphasized that the utility serves as a vital resource, ensuring the safety and health of the community. The Customer Relief Fund represents an effort to provide immediate assistance while collaborating with state and local officials on longer-term solutions to address energy affordability.
Eligibility for the PECO Customer Relief Fund requires applicants to be in arrears on their bills, with household income levels falling within 151 to 300 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. For example, a family of four with an annual income ranging from ,547 to ,450 would qualify for assistance. Approved grants will be credited directly to their PECO energy bills, easing the immediate financial strain on these households.
Pennsylvania’s Lieutenant Governor, Austin Davis, highlighted the importance of the initiative: “The PECO Customer Relief Fund targets those who far too often fall between the cracks – hard-working families who make too much to qualify for assistance, but not enough to be financially secure. No Pennsylvanian should have to choose between keeping the lights on or paying for their prescriptions or groceries. That’s why today’s announcement is so important.”
Customers seeking assistance can submit applications through the United Way beginning August 4. This fund illustrates PECO’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that community members have access to essential resources during economic hardships, reinforcing the importance of corporate social responsibility in the energy sector. As energy prices continue to remain a primary concern for households, initiatives such as the PECO Customer Relief Fund are crucial in helping bridge the gap for those in financial distress.
