About OHCS' Energy Assistance Programs
OHCS provides funding to local community agencies that provide bill payment assistance programs. These programs assist low-income households to make their energy costs more affordable. They also help prevent the loss and the restoration of home energy service. Payments are made to the utility company on the customer’s behalf.
OHCS provides funding and program support through two programs:
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP)
Eligibility for OHCS' Energy Assistance Programs
To be eligible for energy assistance under either program, a household income must be at or below 60% of Oregon´s median income. See the table below. Income levels are based on household income and household size.
Households may rent or own their property. Rental/utility agreements and landlord cooperation may affect the kind or level of benefits provided. A household must also have documented energy costs.
Income Guidelines for Oregon (Program Year 2026)
For the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 (October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026), requirement is 60% of State Median Income by Household Size. (Estimated State Median by Household Size - Source HHS.
Please note: Gross Income means all household income before any deductions
Apply for Energy Assistance with a Local Agency
Please contact the agency in your county for assistance.
Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP)
The Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP) is a low-income electric bill payment assistance program for customers of Pacific Power and Portland General Electric. The purpose of this program is to reduce service disconnections for customers who are unable to pay their utilities.
OEAP is delivered throughout the state by Community Action Agencies (CAA’s). Individuals who cannot visit the CAA office in person can request alternative application methods, including phone, mail, and/or home visits.
OHCS encourages local agencies to design programs that best meet the needs of the individual community. Therefore, program policies and procedures may vary slightly between counties.
Individuals wishing to apply for OEAP should contact their local provider.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP assists households by applying for an energy assistance grant directly to the energy provider. This is applied on behalf of the eligible household. LIHEAP may also help repair or replace an unsafe, dysfunctional, and/or inoperative heating system. Eligible households may also qualify to have their homes made more energy efficient through the Weatherization Program.
Local CAAs administer all components of Oregon's LIHEAP program. Each LIHEAP service provider designs programs to best meet local community needs. Therefore, program policies and producers may vary slightly between counties. (Please see a list of CAAs in the table above.)
Individuals who are “homebound” (physically infirm) can request alternative application methods. These include but are not limited to phone, mail, and/or home visits.
Please note: OHCS administers the LIHEAP program in Oregon. OHCS does not determine eligibility or award grants to households.