Energy Affordability Program (EAP) in New York: the complete guide
If you're a New York resident struggling with electric bills, EAP is one of the most underused programs available. Here's everything you need to know.
What is EAP?
The Energy Affordability Program provides monthly bill discounts to low-income New York utility customers. It's not a one-time payment like HEAP — it's an ongoing monthly reduction applied directly to your bill. Discounts typically range from $3 to $45+ per month depending on your utility, usage, and income level.
Who qualifies?
You may qualify if your household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. For a family of four in 2026, that's roughly $62,000/year. You also qualify automatically if you participate in certain programs: SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, TANF, HEAP, or similar assistance programs.
How to apply
EAP enrollment varies by utility:
- National Grid — call customer service or apply through their website
- NYSEG — contact customer service for enrollment
- Central Hudson — available through their low-income programs page
- Orange & Rockland — contact customer service
If you already receive HEAP benefits, you may be automatically enrolled in EAP. Check your bill for an "EAP discount" line item.
Stacking EAP with community solar
EAP and community solar are completely separate programs that stack. EAP reduces your bill by a fixed monthly amount. Community solar applies percentage-based credits on top of that. And if you qualify for EAP, you likely qualify for the boosted community solar rate (up to 20% in New York). Triple-stacking HEAP + EAP + community solar is the maximum bill reduction available to qualifying New York households.
Ready to start saving? Enrollment is free, takes about 5 minutes, and nothing gets installed.
Check if I qualify🔒 Secure enrollment via Ampion & VoltEra Energy