PURPOSE: To regulate consumer services and rates for all public utilities in North Carolina.
One major source of assistance is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP is a block grant program administered by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Congress established the formula for distributing funds to the states based on each state\'s weather and low-income population. All fifty states and the District of Columbia receive LIHEAP grants each year.

To be eligible for a LIHEAP grant, a household\'s income must not exceed the greater of 150% of the poverty level or 60% of the state median income. The highest level of LIHEAP assistance goes to those households with the lowest incomes and highest energy costs or needs in relation to income, taking into account family size. States and other grantees must conduct outreach activities designed to ensure that eligible households, especially households with elderly or disabled individuals and households with high home energy burdens, are made aware that this assistance is available. States and other grantees also must coordinate their LIHEAP programs with related programs.
Services: Consumer;Utility Assistance;
Contact: Edward S. Finley, Jr.