LA GRANDE — With temperatures dropping and heating costs on the rise, Avista Utilities is offering bill discounts for Oregonians.

The utility company recently launched a more comprehensive personalized bill discount program, according to a press release from Avista Utilities. The household size and income requirements for the My Energy Discount program are designed to be more inclusive.

“More people qualify for this program,” Senior Energy Program Manager Kelsey Solberg said. “People who never thought they had options or were denied for assistance in the past may now get ongoing financial relief.”

Households making 60% or below the state median income as of Oct. 1 qualify for the program, according to Avista’s My Energy Discount — Oregon webpage. For example, a family of four with a monthly gross income of $5,357 or less or an annual gross income of $64,282 or less would qualify.

The My Energy Discount program is a continuation of Avista Utilities’ My Energy Rate program, which was launched in the fall of 2022 under the direction and support of the Oregon Public Utility Commission.

“Help is now quick and easy to access, with no appointments or paperwork necessary,” Solberg said.

The enrollment process is designed to be simple and should only take a few minutes, according to the press release. Customers can apply online or over the phone. Paper applications can also be mailed to Avista or customers can apply through their local community action agency.

If approved, the discount is effective for two years. After two years, customers will need to reenroll in the program.

“Customers should not wait to sign up. Funding is available to all eligible Oregon customers,” Solberg said. “Cold weather is settling in, heaters are being turned on and holidays and school breaks have arrived. The sooner someone is enrolled, the less they’ll need to spend on their energy bill. If you or anyone you know may benefit from this opportunity, we encourage you to reach out to us now.”

Avista Utilities serves nearly 106,000 customers in portions of the state, including Northeast Oregon.

Customers can apply online at myavista.com or over the phone at 800-227-9187.