EnergyAdvocacy

How we work for you

Action Inc. advocates for low-income residents and energy efficiency regionally, statewide, and nationally

We are an advocate for people who are facing challenges and don’t know where to turn. Action Inc. helps people in a number of ways by working at regional, state, and federal levels to secure funding for energy conservation and energy affordability services for low-income households. Through our outreach and advocacy, we seek to improve the energy situation for income-eligible residents in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Elliott Jacobson, Vice President of Energy Services, talks with Senator Bruce E. Tarr and an Action Inc. Energy Services client.

Elliott Jacobson, Vice President of Energy Services, leads Action Inc.’s energy advocacy efforts on the regional and national stage. Over the coming years, Jacobson will continue to advocate for low-income interests and energy efficiency by:

  • Negotiating with public utilities, government agencies, and emerging utility companies and cooperatives in order to design, implement, and monitor energy programs
  • Sustaining relationships with electric and gas utilities in order to secure energy funding for the benefit of low-income people
  • Serving as a board member and maintaining relationships with numerous state and federal organizations
  • Continuing ongoing annual negotiations and initiating three-year (2019-2021) plans with gas and electric utilities
  • Attending the New England Conference of Public Utility Commissioners on behalf of the New England Community Action Association and the Low-Income Energy Affordability Network
  • Serving as Governor-appointed councilor on the Massachusetts Energy Efficiency Advisory Council and as chair of the Weatherization Task Force for the State Energy Advisory Board, appointed by the Energy Secretary of the US Department of Energy
  • Continuing to administer the CEC Renewables Program, designed to provide renewable energy and repair services to low-income electric consumers, on behalf of Action Inc. and in conjunction with Action for Boston Community Development

Frequently asked questions

Can I qualify for discounted electric and/or gas rates if I don't receive fuel assistance?

Yes. It is possible to qualify for discounted electric and/or gas rates with National Grid if your bills are in your name and you are currently receiving any of these benefits: SSI, SNAP, WIC, TAFDC, EAEDC, Head Start, MassHealth (Medicaid), Public Housing, National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Veterans’ Service Benefits (Chapter 115), Veterans DIC Surviving Parent or Spouse, Veterans Non-Service Disability Pension. Please call Action Inc. Energy Services at 978-283-2131 or the Fuel Assistance direct line at 978-281-3900 to learn more.

Can I qualify for weatherization and other energy efficiency services if I don't receive fuel assistance?

Yes. It is possible to qualify for discounted electric and/or gas rates with National Grid if your bills are in your name and you are currently receiving any of these benefits: SSI, SNAP, WIC, TAFDC, EAEDC, Head Start, MassHealth (Medicaid), Public Housing, National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Veterans’ Service Benefits (Chapter 115), Veterans DIC Surviving Parent or Spouse, Veterans Non-Service Disability Pension. Please call Action Inc. Energy Services at 978-283-2131 or the Fuel Assistance direct line at 978-281-3900 to learn more.

I need help with my energy bills. How do I know if I am eligible for supportive services?

Please call 978-283-2131 to learn more.

Contact us for more information

Elliott Jacobson

Vice President for Energy Services
978-283-2131