Charlottesville Utilities offering support for high natural gas bills

Temperatures are in the 70’s this week which means it is likely that consumption of natural gas in the area is reduced for those who use it to power furnaces. But many customers of Charlottesville Utilities are seeing higher bills than usual due to a cold winter.

“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,” reads an information release sent out on February 25, 2026.

Here are some of resources to plan ahead for next winter:

The Virginia Department of Social Services offers the Energy Assistance Program with support for heating emergencies and heating fuel costs. There is also assistance for cooling. Participants cannot exceed 150 percent of the federal poverty level. Applications are submitted through local social service departments. There’s a list here.

According to the city’s website, applications are taken in the fall. For more information, call the Charlottesville Social Services at 434-970-3400 or the Albemarle County Social Services number at 434-972-4010.

For city residents, there is the Charlottesville Gas Assistance Program (GAP) for individuals or households heating with natural gas who do not qualify for State Fuel Assistance or have already used up their share. More information at the city’s website.

“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,” reads the information release.

There are also incentives to reduce costs by making living spaces more energy efficient.

“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,” the release continues.

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development offers assistance with households who want to authorize their homes. Begin your search here.

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Paid subscribers cover the cost of conducting research for this article which was originally published in the March 10, 2026 edition of Charlottesville Community Engagement.  You can either subscribe through Substack or make a charitable contribution.