NYSEG and RG&E Customers Affected by Government Shutdown Should Contact Companies if Assistance is Needed

HEAP opens November 17, 2025 

Other assistance options, including Budget Billing and payment assistance, are available 

 

Binghamton, N.Y. — October 23, 2025 — New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) are reminding customers to contact them immediately if they think they might have trouble paying their energy bills, due to the federal government shutdown or any other reason. The Companies recognize that customers can be challenged by a variety of financial factors, including the federal government shutdown, and remain available to help. This includes identifying assistance programs, utilizing Budget Billing to spread energy costs out over time, setting up payment arrangements, and using free tools like Usage Alerts to help manage energy use. 

 

“There are all sorts of reasons a customer may be worried about falling behind on their energy bills, from the government shutdown to rising supply costs during colder months,” said Christine Alexander, vice president of Customer Service for NYSEG and RG&E. “We have assistance and payment plans available for those who are having trouble.” 

 

HEAP or Home Energy Assistance Program, a federal grant program that helps eligible households pay for energy costs, opens next month. Customers enrolled in HEAP are automatically enrolled in the Companies’ Energy Affordability Program (EAP), which provides customers with an automatic monthly bill credit. Budget billing also spreads energy costs on a monthly average amount, avoiding higher bills during winter and summer heating and cooling season peaks. 

 

The Companies offer several payment options, including budget billing, as well as energy-saving tips, and energy efficiency programs. To learn about EAP and other assistance programs visit Help With Your Bill | NYSEG or  Help With Your Bill | RG&E.