In These Times: Heating & Utility Assistance in Berkshire County

By Tina Sotis, Managing Editor
September 2026

The best time to start applying for assistance is before you need the help.

Berkshire Community Action Council (BCAC)

BCAC administers the Massachusetts Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), formerly known as Fuel Assistance. Eligible households may receive help paying winter heating costs whether they heat with oil, propane, electricity, natural gas, kerosene, wood, pellets, or coal. Renters may also qualify, including some whose heat is included in their rent.

And remember: you don't have to figure out which program you need before making the call. BCAC can help determine which programs you may qualify for. Assistance programs are there to be used—don't wait until you're in crisis to ask for help.

HEAP applications open October 1, 2026, for the upcoming heating season. You must apply each year. Don't wait until cold weather arrives or your fuel tank is nearly empty; applying early gives your application time to be processed. First-time applicants should expect an intake appointment.

BCAC also connects residents with utility discounts, emergency assistance, weatherization, and heating-system repair programs.

Central/South County: (413) 445-4503

North County: (413) 663-3014

Website: bcacinc.org

National Grid Electric Discount

Don't assume the discount happens automatically

National Grid electric customers who receive qualifying benefits such as SNAP, MassHealth, SSI, WIC, public housing, or certain veterans' benefits may qualify for a 32%–71% discount on their electric bill, depending on income and household size.

If you receive one of these benefits, you can apply directly to National Grid rather than waiting for heating assistance. Call (800) 322-3223 or apply through National Grid's Discount Rate application. You'll need proof of your qualifying benefit.

If you qualify for HEAP/LIHEAP, the Community Action Agency verifies your eligibility for the larger discount tiers and sends that information to National Grid.

Heating System Repair & Replacement (HEARTWAP)

If your heating system breaks, BCAC's HEARTWAP program can provide emergency repair or, when necessary, replacement for eligible households. Don't wait for a complete failure in the middle of winter—contact BCAC as soon as you know there's a problem.

Weatherization Assistance

BCAC's Weatherization Assistance Program can provide eligible households with energy-saving improvements such as insulation, air sealing, and weather-stripping, generally at no cost.

Emergency Utility Assistance

If you're facing an imminent utility shutoff, BCAC's Emergency Food and Shelter Program may provide one-time assistance with utility bills. Funds are limited, so don't wait until the last minute.

If you receive a shutoff notice, contact both your utility company and BCAC immediately. Massachusetts' Department of Public Utilities also has a Consumer Division that can help with utility problems and shutoff issues. Reach them at  (877) 886-5066.

Help With Past-Due Bills

Utility companies also offer payment plans and arrearage-management programs for qualifying customers. National Grid's Arrears Management Program, for example, may forgive portions of qualifying past-due balances when customers meet program requirements.