Commerce offers $200 utility credit

OLYMPIA – The state Department of Commerce is offering a $200 credit to low- to moderate-income utility ratepayers across the state.

“We are committed to ensuring that the benefits of the state’s clean energy transition reach everyone, especially those most burdened by energy costs,” said Gov. Jay Inslee. “The Climate Commitment Act is helping thousands of low-income families and communities reduce their home energy costs through things like weatherization, heat pumps and solar installations. While we continue to make those tools available for more people, this credit offers an immediate benefit.”

More than 675,000 utility customers may qualify for the credit, which will be deposited into customer accounts before Sept. 15.

Credits will be applied automatically to certain accounts; other customers will need to apply.

To see if you’re eligible, log onto https://wacleanenergycredits.com. You’ll need to know the name of your utility and your account number.

No application is needed for automatic credit recipients — those in senior, disabled or low-income and other electricity bill assistance programs. The credit will automatically appear on the billing statement.

Priority for the credit is given to those ratepayers who make below 80% of the area’s median income. In rural areas, that’s generally those with a household income of less that $72,000 annually, rising to as much as $135,000, as funding is available.

The credits are being covered by revenues raised by the state through the Climate Commitment Act.