PUD Launches new Low-Income Senior Discount Program
PrintOctober 16, 2015 – Within the first two weeks of its existence, nearly 50 Columbia River PUD customers signed up for a new PUD discount program for senior citizen customers with limited incomes. The Low-Income Senior Discount program gives an $8 discount on the monthly customer charge and a 10% discount on the monthly energy charge to qualified customers. Seniors age 62 and older who have incomes at or below 60% of the state median income are eligible.
The program was proposed by Interim General Manager John Nguyen following feedback from customers and members of the PUD’s rate advisory committee this summer. It was approved at the September Board Meeting and implemented on October 1.
“I’m glad we were able to come up with a program to help make sure our low-income seniors can make ends meet,” said PUD Board Member Harry Price.
Eligible Customers
Customers who may be eligible for the Low-Income Senior Discount should contact the PUD’s Customer Accounts Department at (503) 397-0590 or info@crpud.org for an eligibility screening. The PUD’s office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday – Friday.
Income Guidelines
The PUD uses the State of Oregon’s Energy Assistance Income Guidelines to determine eligibility for this program:
| Size of Family Unit |
Annual Income 60% of Median |
Monthly Income 60% of Median |
| 1 | $21,933 | $1,827.75 |
| 2 | $28,681 | $2,390.08 |
| 3 | $35,429 | $2,952.42 |
| 4 | $42,177 | $3,514.75 |
| 5 | $48,926 | $4,077.17 |
| 6 | $55,674 | $4,639.50 |
*For additional family members, add $1,265/year or $105.44/month.
