Energy Assistance Program
Helping households maintain affordable, continuous, and safe home energy.
The Energy Assistance Program is federally funded through the U.S Department of Health and Human Services, it provides financial assistance to pay a portion of a household’s energy and heating bills. In addition, the program offers emergency assistance for utility disconnection, educates consumers to use home heating energy efficiently and safely, and provides emergency heating system repair or replacement for homeowners under the Energy Related Repair Program (ERR).
Who qualifies?
Both renters and homeowners can qualify. Eligibility is based on income, household size, and actual heating-fuel costs over a consecutive 12-month period that includes the previous heating season. To qualify, a household must complete an application, be responsible for home heating costs, and provide documentation of household income. For example, a family of four could earn up to $73,969 annually and qualify to receive financial assistance with energy bills.
How to Apply
The 2026-2027 Energy Assistance Program will start on October 1st, 2027. If you were approved for the program in 2025-2026 season, the State of Minnesota will automatically mail out a new application for the new heating season in the months of August and September 2026.
An application must be completed every year and be eligible under the program rules to receive Energy Assistance.
Other Languages & Application Formats:
THE ENERGY ASSISTANCE APPLICATION SUBMISSION DEADLINE FOR THE NEW PROGRAM YEAR IS MAY 31ST, 2027. PLEASE CONTACT ONE OF OUR OFFICE LOCATIONS IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR NEED ASSISTANCE COMPLETING AN APPLICATION.
What to Expect
Applications are generally processed in the order they are received. However, we prioritize home heating emergencies, such as an energy shutoff, running out of heating fuel, or a broken furnace. We appreciate your patience as we process the many applications we receive each day. After reviewing your application, we will notify you if we need additional information or if your application has been approved or denied.
Helpful links:
Grant Information
- Grant Program: LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
- Grant Agency: Prairie Five Community Action, Inc. (P5)
- Address: 719 North 7th Street, Suite 302, Montevideo, MN 56265
- Phone: 320-269-6578
- Email: eap@prairiefive.org
Leadership & Oversight
- Executive Leadership: Kami Nesvold, Executive Director, kami.nesvold@prairiefive.org
- Grant Oversight: Nora Guerra, Energy Assistance Program Director, nora.guerra@prairiefive.org
For questions on program leadership & oversight contact us.