In 2023, the Department of Social Services (DSS) conducted its ninth biennial survey. The survey’s primary purpose was to determine the extent to which the Commonwealth’s efforts in assisting low-income households are adequate and not duplicative of similar services provided by utility services providers, charitable organizations, and local governments. Results, findings, and analysis from the 2023 survey are included in this report; the report also includes information on energy assistance programs in other states. (Appendix A includes a chart of the Total Number of Households Receiving LIHEAP Benefits by state.)

In addition to results and analysis from the 2023 survey, this report assesses the adequacy of low-income energy assistance programs in targeting and serving low-income households. The report also examines home energy costs, duplication of services among energy assistance programs, benefit adequacy, and the difficult choices facing low-income Virginians.

This report contains data from the DSS Energy Assistance Program (EAP) database, as well as data compiled in collaboration with the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), Dominion Energy (DE), and American Electric Power (AEP). DSS appreciates the contributions made to the report by all people and organizations involved.