PA HB1778

Establishes the Essential Energy Stability Fund Pilot Program, administered by the Department of Human Services, to provide financial assistance for electric and cooling-related utility costs during the off-season (May 1 through September 30)

Eligible households must be enrolled in LIHEAP, CAP, or similar public utility assistance programs during the preceding heating season, with priority given to zip codes with higher heat vulnerability or energy burden

Appropriates $10,000,000 from the General Fund for the initial two-year operation, with the department permitted to use carryover federal LIHEAP funds as a supplement

Assistance is provided as direct bill credits through memoranda of understanding with regulated electric and gas utilities, which will help identify eligible households and report outcomes

Requires annual reporting to the Governor and General Assembly by February 1, including number of households assisted, expenditures, and demographic data; pilot program expires December 31, 2027