Tucson Electric Power outlines new and existing assistance programs, including the statewide Power AZ initiative that could help 30,000 Arizona households.
Tucson Electric Power is highlighting a new statewide program and its own suite of assistance options for customers struggling to pay their electric bills. The utility’s announcement comes as summer heat drives up usage and costs.
New Power AZ Program
The most significant new resource is Power AZ, a statewide initiative launched in March 2026. It has made $15 million available to households that haven’t qualified for energy bill payment assistance in the past. The program expands income eligibility compared with the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). An estimated 30,000 Arizona households who previously didn’t qualify for LIHEAP may now be eligible for help through Power AZ.
The same application covers both Power AZ and LIHEAP. Applicants can apply through the Department of Economic Security’s A-to-Z Arizona Portal, and DES will evaluate household income to determine eligibility. Because funding is limited, TEP urges customers to apply as soon as possible.
For application help, call the LIHEAP service line at (866) 494-1981. The Pima County Community Assistance Division can also assist; visit its website or call (520) 724-2460.
TEP’s Existing Programs
TEP offers several programs to help customers manage bills. Customers can log in to their TEP account or call (520) 623-7711 to explore options.
- Lifeline discount: Households at or below 200% of the federal poverty level may qualify for a monthly discount worth up to $240 a year.
- Payment arrangements and extensions: Customers not already on a payment plan can request an extension, generally if they have a solid payment history.
- Third-party notification: Designate a trusted friend or family member to receive copies of overdue bills as a reminder, without giving them account access.
- Medical device notification: Customers relying on life-sustaining medical devices can stay informed about service interruptions and restoration times.
- Budget Billing: Spreads projected annual usage across 12 flat monthly payments, eliminating summer spikes.
- Free home weatherization: TEP partners with community organizations to provide upgrades like weather-stripping and sun screens.
Local agencies also provide emergency bill payment assistance using federal Home Energy Assistance funds, including Interfaith Community Services and Pima County Community Action Agency.
Getting Started
TEP’s Neighbor Connect tool is a single online form that connects customers with assistance programs and community partners based on their situation. It’s designed for non-urgent requests; for immediate support, customers should contact Customer Care directly.
Reducing Future Bills
TEP also suggests simple habits to lower costs: set thermostats a few degrees higher when away or sleeping, keep blinds closed during peak heat, switch to LED bulbs, and unplug electronics when not in use. Rebates on energy-efficient products like smart thermostats and appliances can also help.
The bottom line, TEP says: Ask for support before things get harder.