Lakeland Electric Connects Customers to $8.2 Million in Energy Assistance

Lakeland Electric has helped connect more than 8,500 local households to $8.2 million in utility assistance through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), made possible by a new partnership with technology provider Promise and administered in Florida at the state level.

Unlike traditional aid programs that rely on customers to seek help, this new approach uses targeted outreach to identify likely-eligible customers and assist them in applying before they fall behind on their bills.

“We’re not waiting for people to call us in crisis,” said Korey Bush, Assistant General Manager of Customer Service. “We’re reaching out early to offer help, including those who’ve never applied for assistance.”

In May and June alone, more than $8 million in federally funded assistance was awarded to Lakeland Electric customers, with over 4,900 awards issued in June. The initiative has significantly reduced disconnection risks and helped stabilize household budgets during peak summer usage.

Eligible customers are notified by Promise and given the opportunity to decline the assistance before funds are applied. Once accepted, the approved LIHEAP funds appear as a credit on the customer’s electric bill. These funds apply only to electric service and are not used for other utilities such as water or solid waste.

“We’re proud to see this partnership delivering real results for Lakeland Electric customers,” Bush said. “This is about removing barriers and making sure help reaches the people who need it most.”