An estimated 125 township seniors attended a forum today at the Maple Tree Senior Center in Avenel to learn about utility assistance and other cost saving programs that are available to reduce electric, gas and water bills.
The event was intentionally timed at the end of the Winter Termination Program, which protects eligible customers from electric, gas and water utility shut-offs during the winter months. The program ends Saturday, March 15.
The two-hour event was free and open to Woodbridge seniors. Representatives from utilities serving the township shared information, including PSE&G, Elizabethtown Gas and Middlesex Water. The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, Department of Community Affairs, New Jersey Utilities Association, Home Energy Assistance Program of Middlesex County, the Community Affairs & Resource Center, New Jersey SHARES and local leaders were represented.
"Every day, my district office receives calls from seniors concerned about rising utility costs and their overall household expenses,” said New Jersey State Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez (D-19th District) “I am glad the Mayor John McCormac is hosting this important forum to discuss the tools available for our constituents to save money and engage in more energy efficient practices.”
“Outreach programs like this are critical to assessing and addressing the needs of our seniors and I look forward to many more discussions and to continue advocating for the expansion of vital utility assistance measures and programs,” the assemblywoman added.
McCormac said the township was pleased to participate in this important event as the Woodbridge community prepares for the spring and summer seasons when electric and water usage is at its highest.
“Our senior citizens, many of whom are on a fixed income, will be impacted,” McCormac said.
“I laud the utilities for being proactive by hosting this informative program and am pleased that so many of our seniors attended, learned some helpful household tips and joined in the effort to be as energy efficient as possible.”
"Affordability is always top of mind. New Jersey's utility providers and NJUA play a key role in informing ratepayers of opportunities and providing support to make energy more affordable," said Christine Guhl-Sadovy, President, New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU). "As this year’s Winter Termination Program comes to end, events like NJUA's Forum today are critical to ensuring those who need assistance, get the assistance they deserve. We look forward to bolstering our partnership with NJUA to double down on efforts to meet even more ratepayers where they are and deliver cost savings."
“For the 13 member companies of the New Jersey Utilities Association, a paramount objective is educating our customers about ways in which they can save money by conserving our resources,” said NJUA President and CEO Richard Henning. “This event in Woodbridge, and many other similar outreach programs around the state, are designed to encourage a better understanding of how utilities operate, as the distributors of electric, natural gas, water, and broadband service.”
“In fact, all of New Jersey’s utilities in concert with the NJBPU host energy assistance programs throughout the state. If you or someone you know are behind on your energy bills, the best thing you can do is reach out to your local utility for help” Henning added. “They can connect customers with a wide range of available energy assistance programs to help get your account in good standing and ensure the continued comfort of your home.”
The event was developed in partnership with the Township of Woodbridge, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, the NJUA and its 13 member companies committed to serving New Jersey families. Learn more at NJUA.com
