NPU’s Community Assistance Rate (CAR)

As part of the three-year rate track that was approved by the NPU Board of Commissioners in September, we have developed NPU’s Community Assistance Rate (CAR). This went into effect on November 1, 2023, and will provide a discounted electric rate for eligible customers in Norwich.

Norwich households with incomes below 60% of the State of Connecticut’s Median Household Income by family size are eligible for this new electric rate. We believe that approximately 20% of the households in Norwich are eligible, based on participation in various heating assistance programs. 

The following table shows the 60% State of CT Median Household Income qualifications published by the State Department of Social Services and current as of September 2022:

Family Size                        60% State Median

1                                                                  $39,761

2                                                                 $51,996

3                                                                 $64,230

4                                                                 $76,465

5                                                                 $88,699

6                                                                 $100,933

7                                                                 $103,227

8                                                                 $105,521

NPU will work with the Thames Valley Council for Community Action (TVCCA) to confirm income information for applicants; this process takes place as part of the annual application process for energy assistance each year.

Effective November 1, 2023, qualified customers are receiving a 10% discount on the electric portion of their bill each month. For a low-income customer with a monthly electric bill of $200, this represents a savings of $20 per month and $240 per year. 

NPU is also extending an additional 10% discount to customers who are enrolled in AutoPay each month, which could result in an additional savings of $240 per year for a low-income customer with a monthly electric bill of $200. This discount is capped at 1,000 kWh per month, which we hope will encourage a more efficient use of electricity. Customers who do not remain current on their bills will not be eligible for the additional 10% discount rate.  

We estimate that this program will result in approximately $1 million in forgone revenue for NPU; however, this is an attempt to provide a measure of relief for individuals and families who are experiencing financial difficulties. We also believe that the program will help NPU reduce the number of past-due accounts.

For more information on this new program, please contact NPU at (860) 887-2555.