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PUC Grants Gas Utility Limited Waivers on Low-Income Program
On June 4, 2026 the Pennsylvania PUC issued an order on UGI Gas Division’s petition for limited waivers of certain low-income usage reduction program regulations . UGI must file a revised 2026 Universal Service Energy Conservation Program (USECP) compliance filing.
Note that the current 2020–2025 USECP remains in effect until the 2026 plan is approved.
Commissioner Stephen M. DeFrank filed a statement urging “UGI to convert its opt-out CAP auto-enrollment process to align within the opt-in framework that UGI is now adopting in this proceeding.”
Under this order:
CAP:
- Flexible income verification (30 days vs. 12 months)
- Historical usage is incorporated into CAP bill calculations.
- CAP credits applied at billing
Customer Retention:
- Customers can re-enroll to restore service (including recently terminated customers).
- 12-month lockout if customers opt out (unless catch-up paid)
- Broader eligibility and exceptions (high usage, LIURP participation not strictly required).
Arrears Management:
- Past-due balances can be deferred/forgiven under CAP/PPA upon enrollment.
- Final bills capped at prorated CAP amounts
CAP / LIURP / Operation Share:
- Streamlined qualification across programs (shared eligibility, fewer documentation requirements).
- CAP customers are automatically eligible for additional assistance (e.g., Operation Share).
Operational Changes:
- Movement toward online CAP applications and reduced recertification friction.
- Enhanced data tracking (auto-enrollment, payment behavior, forgiveness outcomes).
Outreach:
- Increased outreach to recently terminated and transferring customers.
- Expanded education, notifications, and standardized communications across channels.
Budget:
- Increased LIURP funding of $1 million and defined enrollment levels; unused funds roll over.
Compliance:
- Ongoing reporting on CAP auto-enrollment, payment behavior, and program performance.
- Alignment with prior base rate case settlement terms

