Could you be saving $175 on your summer energy bills without even applying?
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If your utility bills have been creeping higher lately, you’re not alone—many households are feeling the heat, both inside and outside.
Rising energy costs, coupled with hotter summers, make it harder to keep cool without overspending.
But in a certain state, a little-known program is giving some residents an automatic $175 discount on their summer bills, with no forms to fill out and no waiting period.
The savings arrive as a series of monthly credits, quietly lowering costs at a time when relief is most needed.
If you qualify, you might already be benefiting without even realizing it.
The Relief for Energy Assistance Program (REAP) was launched in 2024 to help low-income New Jersey households keep essential utilities running through the summer months.
Now in its second year, the program—supported by Governor Phil Murphy’s administration—continues to provide targeted assistance.
The best part? There’s no application process.
Eligible customers automatically receive seven $25 credits on their bills during the summer, totaling $175 in savings.
The credits appear directly on qualifying accounts, ensuring help reaches residents when cooling costs are highest.
Eligibility is determined by your utility company using records they already have.
If you were enrolled in the Winter Termination Program (WTP) between November 15, 2024, and March 15, 2025, you’re likely on the list.
The WTP protects vulnerable residents—especially those dealing with illness, unemployment, or financial hardship—from utility shutoffs during cold months.
Many recipients of REAP are also enrolled in programs such as the Lifeline Credit Program, the Federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), and Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF).
For more details or to confirm eligibility, check with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities or contact your utility provider.
While New Jersey leads the way with REAP, not all states have comparable programs.
Nationwide, electricity costs have risen by as much as 4.5% in the past year, according to CNBC.
Some communities, like New Braunfels, Texas, have also seen water rates climb nearly 10%, with further increases expected.
States such as Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas are facing average annual energy bills approaching $1,000.
With extreme weather and inflation raising costs, every bit of assistance can make a difference.
Even if you’re not eligible for REAP, there are plenty of strategies to keep your summer energy bills in check:
Appliances and electronics can draw power even when turned off.
Unplugging devices or using smart power strips can save you up to $200 a year—another simple way to keep more money in your pocket.
If you live elsewhere, you may still qualify for relief through programs such as LIHEAP or your local utility’s assistance offerings.
Many states also have targeted programs for seniors and low-income households.
A quick online search or phone call to your utility provider can help you discover available benefits.
If you or someone you know is a New Jersey resident, take a closer look at your summer utility bills to see if you’re receiving REAP credits.
If you’re not in the state, explore other assistance options and try incorporating these energy-saving tips.
A few small changes can help keep your home comfortable and your costs manageable all season long.
Read next: Cut $128.52 off your energy bill! Try this simple trick
Have you tried REAP or another energy relief program? Do you have your own tricks for keeping bills low during the summer? Share your ideas and experiences with the community—we can all benefit from each other’s knowledge.
Rising energy costs, coupled with hotter summers, make it harder to keep cool without overspending.
But in a certain state, a little-known program is giving some residents an automatic $175 discount on their summer bills, with no forms to fill out and no waiting period.
The savings arrive as a series of monthly credits, quietly lowering costs at a time when relief is most needed.
If you qualify, you might already be benefiting without even realizing it.
Energy assistance programs can help households stay cool and manage costs during the summer months. Image Source: Pexels / Photo By: Kaboompics.com.
The REAP advantage: Relief that comes to you
The Relief for Energy Assistance Program (REAP) was launched in 2024 to help low-income New Jersey households keep essential utilities running through the summer months.
Now in its second year, the program—supported by Governor Phil Murphy’s administration—continues to provide targeted assistance.
The best part? There’s no application process.
Eligible customers automatically receive seven $25 credits on their bills during the summer, totaling $175 in savings.
The credits appear directly on qualifying accounts, ensuring help reaches residents when cooling costs are highest.
Also read: Struggling with energy bills? This new support for pensioners could change everything!
Who qualifies for REAP?
Eligibility is determined by your utility company using records they already have.
If you were enrolled in the Winter Termination Program (WTP) between November 15, 2024, and March 15, 2025, you’re likely on the list.
The WTP protects vulnerable residents—especially those dealing with illness, unemployment, or financial hardship—from utility shutoffs during cold months.
Many recipients of REAP are also enrolled in programs such as the Lifeline Credit Program, the Federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), and Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF).
For more details or to confirm eligibility, check with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities or contact your utility provider.
Also read: Get Help Paying Your Energy Bills: Government Aid for Social Security Recipients!
Why this matters now more than ever
While New Jersey leads the way with REAP, not all states have comparable programs.
Nationwide, electricity costs have risen by as much as 4.5% in the past year, according to CNBC.
Some communities, like New Braunfels, Texas, have also seen water rates climb nearly 10%, with further increases expected.
States such as Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas are facing average annual energy bills approaching $1,000.
With extreme weather and inflation raising costs, every bit of assistance can make a difference.
Also read: Are you missing out? 15 legitimate ways to claim free money from the government
Smart ways to cut your cooling costs
Even if you’re not eligible for REAP, there are plenty of strategies to keep your summer energy bills in check:
- Move electronics away from the thermostat: Heat from devices can cause your air conditioner to run longer than needed.
- Keep your A/C unit shaded: Shade improves efficiency and reduces strain on the system.
- Clean your A/C filter: A clean filter ensures better airflow and lower energy use.
- Set it and stick with it: Constantly changing thermostat settings can use more energy.
- Don’t block vents: Keep furniture and curtains clear of airflow.
- Check air ducts for leaks: Sealing them can prevent cooled air from escaping.
- Use ceiling fans: They help circulate air, making rooms feel cooler without lowering the thermostat.
A ceiling fan can help circulate air, making rooms feel cooler without lowering the thermostat. Image Source: Pexels / Curtis Adams.
Also read: This simple fan trick could cool your home faster and lower your electric bill
Bonus tip: Watch out for “energy vampires”
Appliances and electronics can draw power even when turned off.
Unplugging devices or using smart power strips can save you up to $200 a year—another simple way to keep more money in your pocket.
Also read: Heatwave alert: 6 smart AC tips for you to stay comfortable and save money
Not in New Jersey? You still have options
If you live elsewhere, you may still qualify for relief through programs such as LIHEAP or your local utility’s assistance offerings.
Many states also have targeted programs for seniors and low-income households.
A quick online search or phone call to your utility provider can help you discover available benefits.
If you or someone you know is a New Jersey resident, take a closer look at your summer utility bills to see if you’re receiving REAP credits.
If you’re not in the state, explore other assistance options and try incorporating these energy-saving tips.
A few small changes can help keep your home comfortable and your costs manageable all season long.
Read next: Cut $128.52 off your energy bill! Try this simple trick
Have you tried REAP or another energy relief program? Do you have your own tricks for keeping bills low during the summer? Share your ideas and experiences with the community—we can all benefit from each other’s knowledge.
