KINGSTON, N.Y. — Central Hudson Gas & Electric. Coprt announced on Wednesday the launch of the Enhanced Energy Affordability Program, a new two-year pilot designed to support customers who do not meet the income requirements for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) or Central Hudson’s Energy Affordability Program (EAP), but still need help managing their energy bills.

EEAP provides a fixed monthly bill discount to help low- and moderate-income families reduce their energy costs, the utility said.

“At Central Hudson, we understand that energy costs can be a challenge for many households,” said Lauren Preston, chief customer services Officer, in a prepared statement. “The Enhanced Energy Affordability Program is designed to provide meaningful relief and help customers manage their bills more effectively. By enrolling, customers can take advantage of expanded benefits that make energy more affordable and accessible. We strongly encourage all eligible customers to sign up and experience the difference this program can make.”

Central Hudson said that to qualify for EEAP, applicants must:

• Be an active Central Hudson customer with an active electric or gas account;

• Have a household income at or below 100% of State Median Income or Area Median Income. Income guidelines are available at www.CentralHudson.com/EEAP.

• Provide complete income documentation for all household members for the past month.

• Not be currently enrolled in the Energy Affordability Program (EAP).

EEAP is separate from EAP, which supports households receiving qualifying government assistance benefits. Customers enrolled in EAP are not eligible for EEAP.

Eligible customers may apply for EEAP at https://cenhud.nyeeap.com/program, or by calling (877) 400-2501 for support.

Applicants will be required to submit a Central Hudson bill from each of the last three months and proof of income for all household members from the past month, such as pay stubs, Social Security or pension statements, or self-employment records.

To learn more about Central Hudson’s payment assistance and billing programs, visit CentralHudson.com/Paymentassistance.