Arkansas Energy Network overview
The Arkansas Energy Network had operated as a statewide fuel-fund and utility assistance effort that brought together utility companies, charities, churches, community action agencies and other non-profits. However the network no longer exists and has been in effect replaced by other organizations. While The Arkansas Energy Network served large numbers of households for many years, it no longer operates under it original name. Learn about what the Network did in the past and where to get help today.
What was the Energy Network?
The purpose of the Network was to provide short term help with power, gas and other utility bills for low income households, especially elderly and disabled Arkansans that are facing a temporary financial hardship. The organization operated a 501(c)(3) corporation and historically received donations and corporate contributions from energy providers and community partners. The network then used those funds to make grants credited directly to customer accounts.
The Arkansas Energy Network functioned as an administrator of funds raised by utility partners, foundations, churches and individual donors. While not providing direct financial support itself, applications for assistance have been taken locally at community agencies rather than through a single statewide office.
- As an example of how it worked, in the past, Entergy Arkansas and other utilities publicized donations and campaigns that sent money into the Arkansas Energy Network to help older adults, people with disabilities and other vulnerable customers who were at risk of having their service disconnected.
The intake sites that once processed requests continue to operate, but they now handle energy assistance through other programs such as LIHEAP, local community-based fuel funds, weatherization resources and utility-specific hardship programs in Arkansas.
Current alternatives other than the Arkansas Energy Network
Residents who are behind on payments should reach out to their utility company immediately. Many disconnections can be delayed or avoided when a payment plan, extension or temporary hardship option is arranged in advance. After that first call, residents should contact one of the programs listed above.
Struggling Arkansas families still have reliable ways to receive help with energy bills. The federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program remains the primary statewide program for people living in or near poverty levels. LIHEAP in Arkansas provides heating, cooling and crisis support. It is administered by community-based organizations in every county.
- Energy conservation is available too. Local community action agencies also handle the Weatherization Assistance Program and other state-supported conservation resources.
- Another active option is the Arkansas Utility Assistance Program operated by the Dollar Energy Fund, which works with participating utilities and provides one-time grants for qualifying households. Details are available at Dollar Energy Fund.
In addition to those, there are of course charities such as the Salvation Army, local churches and other option. As a number of organizations, as well as programs such as those above, try to help struggling residents keep the power on.
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