As colder temperatures arrive, Wythe County reminds residents of several state and utility-sponsored programs available to help manage winter heating costs, improve home energy efficiency, and reduce utility expenses.
The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) offers financial assistance to eligible households through the Energy Assistance Program (EAP). Additionally, Appalachian Power provides energy-saving resources, rebates, and weatherization assistance through its TakeCharge Virginia initiative.
Virginia Energy Assistance Program (EAP)
The Virginia Energy Assistance Program helps eligible low-income households with heating and cooling expenses, equipment needs, and energy-related emergencies.
Fuel Assistance – application deadline: November 13, 2026
Fuel Assistance helps eligible households offset winter heating expenses, including heating fuel, furnace restarts, delivery charges, and utility connection or reconnection fees.
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Applications for the 2026–2027 heating season are accepted through Friday, November 13, 2026.
Crisis Assistance – applications now open
Crisis Assistance provides support to eligible households experiencing heating emergencies when other resources are unavailable.
- November 1 – March 15: Assistance for heating equipment repairs or replacement and one-time heating security deposits.
- First workday in January – March 15: Assistance with heating fuel purchases and heating utility bills.
Crisis Assistance is subject to funding availability and eligibility requirements.
Eligibility and how to apply
Eligibility is based on household income, size, and responsibility for heating or cooling expenses. Generally, applicants must have a gross monthly household income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level.
Residents can apply through:
- Online: Virginia CommonHelp
- By phone: 276-228-5493
- In person: Wythe County Department of Social Services
For additional program information and eligibility requirements, visit the Virginia Department of Social Services Energy Assistance webpage.
Save on energy costs with Appalachian Power's TakeCharge Virginia
Appalachian Power offers several energy-efficiency programs designed to help Virginia customers reduce electricity consumption, improve home comfort, and potentially lower monthly utility bills.
Available programs include:
Home Performance Program
Offers home energy assessments to help identify areas where energy may be wasted. Eligible customers may qualify for rebates on improvements such as insulation and energy-efficient heating equipment.
Low Income Weatherization Program
Provides qualifying Appalachian Power customers with no-cost weatherization products and services to help improve home energy efficiency and comfort. Improvements may help reduce energy consumption and heating expenses.
Energy Efficiency Kits Program
Provides qualifying customers with energy-saving products designed to help reduce energy use throughout the home.
Efficient Products Program – instant discounts
Offers discounts and rebates on eligible energy-saving products, including weatherization supplies such as caulk, insulating sealants, outlet gaskets, and pipe insulation.
ENERGY STAR® appliance rebates
Provides opportunities for eligible customers to receive rebates on qualifying energy-efficient household appliances.
Bring Your Own Thermostat Program
Offers qualifying customers opportunities to participate in energy-saving initiatives using compatible smart thermostats.
Additional programs are available for multifamily housing and other eligible customers. Program requirements, incentives, and availability vary.
Residents can explore all available programs at TakeChargeVA.com.
Additional weatherization assistance
The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development also administers the Weatherization Assistance Program, which helps qualifying households reduce energy costs through improvements such as air sealing, insulation, and heating system repairs.
For more information, visit Virginia's Weatherization Assistance Program.
