Programs That Help Rural Residents Afford Propane Heating Fuel Throughout the Season

When moving to a rural home, people who are struggling a bit financially may wonder how they will afford the liquefied petroleum gas they need to fuel the propane furnace. It's not that propane typically costs more than the natural gas available in town, but it's delivered by a private company instead of sent through a utility pipeline. Fortunately, there are more affordable ways to pay an organization like River Country Cooperative that don't require paying for a full tank of fuel all at once.

Consistent Monthly Payments

This type of propane delivery service offers consistent monthly payments over 12 months, just as municipal utility companies do. For new customers, the company uses an equation to estimate how much fuel they will need over the next year and then divides that number by 12. The company considers homes of similar size in the area with the same number of residents, and how much fuel generally is used by these customers.

Energy Assistance

Rural residents in this region also should be aware that they are eligible for energy assistance. Companies like River Country Cooperative deliver propane to areas in Minnesota and Wisconsin, both of which have energy assistance programs for residents who meet the income qualifications. Many of these applicants are senior citizens whose only income is Social Security retirement benefits, but adults of any age may apply. Residents may also be able to receive a certain amount of electrical energy assistance.

It's best to apply for this assistance early in the season, which is considered to start in October in this part of the country. Limited funds are available each year and it's possible that the funding will run out by late winter or early spring. People often wait to apply because they assume they can afford the season's heat, but life can take unexpected turns.

Energy Efficiency

Propane gas is considered an efficient form of heating fuel, so the new rural household can feel satisfied about that. They can still take steps to reduce their heating fuel consumption over the winter, including dressing warmly and lowering the thermostat a degree or two.