Arizona Public Services (APS) has proposed to offer a flat monthly discount of $34 for customers with limited incomes and seeks a $12 million expansion of its current financial relief program.

“APS offers significant help to people with limited incomes who sometimes must choose between putting food on the table, paying electric bills or buying clothes,” George Dean, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Urban League, said. “The increased program support they’re proposing would make a huge difference in the lives of many Arizonans.”

Stacy Derstine, VP of customer service and chief customer officer for APS, said about 85,000 customers currently receive assistance. "But we know more people qualify for discounts, and we want to ensure those who meet the requirements are aware of the help they can get,” she added.

APS also provides help for home weatherization in partnership with Community Action Programs throughout Arizona. The weatherization program enables low-income customers to make their homes more energy efficient, thereby reducing energy costs. APS supports weatherization workshops that teach customers how to seal cracks in walls and windows, as well as other adjustments that result in energy savings. Last year, APS allocated $2.3 million to help with weatherization projects.

“Our weatherization program helps customers improve the efficiency of their homes at no cost to them,” Derstine said. “We want to ensure everyone can afford to run their air conditioners in the heat of the summer and their heaters in the cold of winter.”