Where do I apply for Energy Share?
There are ten offices around the state that handle Energy Share applications. These offices are in the Human Resource Development Councils (HRDCs), which also handle LIEAP applications. To see a list of which HRDC handles applications for which county, click here.
Is there an application online?
Each HRDC understands the needs of their community at a local level, so each office has a slightly different set of questions and information on the cover page. To see if the office that handles applications for your area has an online application, click here [take to interactive map].
Does Energy Share have other programs besides emergency bill assistance?
Yes. For eligible customers of Energy West and Montana-Dakota Utilities, we have two programs:
- Furnace and Water Heater Safety and Efficiency: we examine the furnace and/or water heater. We will repair it if possible, or replace it with an energy-efficient model if necessary.
- Weatherization: cost-effective energy conservation measures are installed in the homes of income-qualified households. First, the Weatherization crews perform an audit to determine what measures would be most effective. Then they do the work after agreement from the home owner and/or landlord.
Click here to see if you are in an area where either of these programs are operated.
Additionally, in most areas of the state Energy Share has a small refrigerator/water heater replacement program. For eligible senior citizens and disabled people who own their homes, we may replace refrigerators that need it if it is demonstrated to be cost-effective. We may also replace water heaters in cases where federal or other funds cannot be used.
How can I help Energy Share?
- Of course, you can always donate! Energy Share is a 501(c)(3), independent, nonprofit organization so your gifts are tax deductible. 100% of private donations are used to help someone in need and – better yet – it will be used first in the area from which it originated.
- You can also designate your gift for the Endowment. Just write “Endowment” on your check. It’s a great way to help Montanans with their home energy needs for years to come.
- Another way to help is to support someone who needs to apply. It’s hard enough to ask for help, but even worse if you can’t pay your bills and you feel down and out. If you know someone who needs help with their home energy bill:
- Help them find the application form;
- Help them locate the right office for that area;
- Help them complete the application; and/or
- Drop it off or mail it to the appropriate office.
Click here for the list of offices in Montana that handle Energy Share applications.
- Many people simply do not want to ask for help because they feel like they’re getting a “hand-out”. With Energy Share, if/when a person is in the position to do so they can repay their Energy Share assistance and the money will be used to help someone else in need.
How do I repay the Energy Share assistance I received?
- You can make a check or money order payable to Energy Share. In the check memo area write “Repayment” and, if you have it, write your “HH ID#” (which can be obtained from the office where you received Energy Share assistance). Mail it to:
Energy Share of Montana
PO Box 5959
Helena, MT 59604-5959
- To repay electronically, click here .
- Take or mail your repayment to the office (HRDC) where you received Energy Share assistance. Make sure they know you’re repaying your Energy Share assistance.
How do I donate to Energy Share?
- Donate electronically here
- Mail a check to Energy Share, PO Box 5959, Helena, MT 59604-5959.
- If you add an Energy Share donation to your monthly bill, most major utilities in Montana will forward it to Energy Share as long as you clearly state what it is for. Check first with your energy provider. Some of them have a box to check if you want to donate to Energy Share.
- Every November you’ll see an Energy Share donation envelope or pledge card in your utility bill, or if you’re a member of the Montana Electric Cooperatives’ Association it will be in the November issue of the “Rural Montana” magazine.
NOTE: In an effort to keep administrative costs low, Energy Share does not take credit card donations over the phone.
Is there a limit to how much help I can get from Energy Share?
- Yes there is. Because Energy Share is a private, nonprofit organization we raise funds across Montana, and then distribute it to those in need. Those funds are limited.
- Energy Share’s purpose is to help people facing one-time emergencies, so we restrict assistance to once every ten years or a recommended maximum of $700 within that ten-year time frame.
- That is a flexible guideline, and can be adjusted under certain circumstances.
What is Energy Share’s administrative rate?
For many years Energy Share’s administrative rate has hovered around 7%.
