Jefferson PUD Proposes Overhaul of Low-Income Rate Assistance
New tiered discounts target households with the highest energy burden.
JEFFERSON COUNTY, WA — With the cost of living continuing to strain household budgets, Jefferson County Public Utility District (PUD) is exploring a significant shift in how it helps low-income customers pay their electric bills. The proposed changes would move away from the current flat-rate credit model to a tiered system that prioritizes households with the highest "energy burden."
According to a press release from the PUD, participation in assistance programs has nearly doubled over the past decade, growing from approximately 546 customers in 2017 to 993 customers in 2026. The flat-rate model, which currently provides a $71.53 monthly credit to qualifying low-income households and seniors, is projected to cost ratepayers $891,909 in 2026.
The proposed "tiered approach" would step away from that flat design. Instead, it would offer deeper discounts to families facing the most severe financial hardship—specifically those spending more than 6% of their household income on electricity and other home energy costs, such as propane and firewood.
Under the proposal being reviewed by the Board of Commissioners, the highest-burdened households—those earning less than 150% of the Federal Poverty Level—would be eligible for a 30% discount. Other qualified households, specifically those with incomes below 80% of the Area Median Income and an energy burden over 6%, would receive a 10% discount. Additionally, the existing separate program for seniors would be merged into this new tiered system.
"This program needs to be focused to ensure support reaches customers who need it most," said Jean Pepper, JPUD Services Director. She emphasized that the PUD is also turning its attention to a new weatherization program to improve home energy efficiency.
Unlike the monthly bill credit, which is funded by ratepayer dollars (approximately $3.41 of the base fee for non-discounted customers), the proposed weatherization program would leverage external resources, such as the Department of Ecology's Cap and Invest program.
"By focusing our efforts on improving the health, safety, and efficiency of the home through weatherization, we are focused on the problem and not the symptoms," Pepper said.
JPUD General Manager Joe Wilson noted that the proposal encourages customers to partner in improving their home’s efficiency, framing it as "a more sustainable alternative to ongoing monthly subsidies."
No final decisions have been made. The PUD Board of Commissioners will continue discussing the proposal during regular meetings, held at 4:00 p.m. on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in-person at 310 Four Corners Road in Port Townsend and online via Microsoft Teams. Links and agendas are available at jeffpud.org.
For current income-qualified credits and qualifications, customers can visit the PUD’s Low Income FAQ page.
