FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 25, 2026

The Charlottesville Department of Utilities Offers Financial Resources and Energy Efficiency Programs to Its Customers

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – The Charlottesville Department of Utilities recognizes that the recent winter storm, and the frigid temperatures it brought to our area, have likely caused Utilities customers to use more natural gas than usual. This extreme weather and subsequent increase in gas usage is an opportunity to remind Utilities customers of the various financial assistance programs available to help them stay on top of their utility bill and can highlight the importance of a properly weatherized home.

Several bill payment programs and strategies are available to customers to help ease the anxiety of energy costs. The Charlottesville Department of Social Services has information on the State of Virgina Energy Assistance Program, which helps eligible households with the cost of heating their homes. The Utility Billing Office provides the Charlottesville Gas Assistance Program (GAP) to help individuals heating with natural gas who, although in financial need, do not qualify for State Fuel Assistance or whose State Assistance allotment has been exhausted. In addition to GAP, the Utility Billing Office also provides several bill payment programs and strategies, such as the Budget Plan or tailored payment arrangements if a customer is having trouble paying their utility bill.

Utilities offers a number of energy efficiency and weatherization resources to help homes maximize their energy efficiency potential. These resources include a free attic insulation self-assessment, $500 attic insulation rebate, $150 attic air sealing rebate, $125 smart thermostat rebate, and a no-cost home weatherization program for qualified customers. A properly weatherized home will help increase comfort and lower energy costs.

The Department of Utilities is committed to providing safe, reliable utility services, and resources to support customers. More information on our financial assistance resources and weatherization programs can be found at www.charlottesville.gov/utilityincentives.

Media Contact
 Ryan Willis
 Utilities Outreach Program Coordinator
 City of Charlottesville
 434-970-3686
willisr@charlottesville.gov