The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has announced the start of its Utility Bill Help (UBH) program for the 2025-2026 heating season. The program, which began as a pilot, saw applications increase from 763 in its first year to 8,512 in the second year, marking a significant rise and demonstrating continued demand.
PUC Director Rebecca White said, “The PUC created the Utility Bill Help program as one more way to help our most vulnerable families receive benefits that help them save money, stay safe and warm, and stay in their own homes. The UBH program has been instrumental in connecting income-qualified families with the utility bill energy assistance programs that can make a big difference in Coloradans’ lives.”
The UBH program is open from October 1, 2025 through August 31, 2026. It connects eligible customers to assistance programs run by utilities to help with energy bills. To qualify for referral through UBH, applicants must be customers of Atmos Energy, Black Hills Energy, Colorado Natural Gas, or Xcel Energy and have an income at or below 80% of the State Median Income.
Applicants are advised to apply for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) first. If they are denied LEAP benefits or do not qualify for LEAP but meet other requirements, they may still be referred through UBH for possible support from their utility’s affordability programs. Approved participants could receive a fixed monthly benefit that caps home natural gas and electric bills at no more than six percent of their monthly income.
In addition to expanding UBH access this season, the PUC recently supported the launch of the Colorado Energy Savings Navigator (CESN), an online tool that helps residents find energy savings programs and rebates. CESN allows users to check eligibility for over 600 rebates and various assistance programs—including federal tax credits set to expire later this year—and provides information on how to apply.
White added: “The PUC is ready to help connect Coloradans with ways to help keep energy affordable. The CESN tool offers a one stop solution to connect Coloradans with the benefits that can save money and energy.”
Residents seeking support should first try applying for LEAP via the Colorado PEAK website; successful enrollment grants a one-time payment and prevents disconnection of service. Those who do not qualify can then apply through UBH for further utility-led assistance options. For comprehensive information about available programs or eligibility requirements, individuals are encouraged to use the CESN tool.
More details about UBH are available by calling 303-869-0380 or emailing dora_utility_bill_help@state.co.us; support is offered in both English and Spanish.
