The committee is expected to begin meeting in November. Additionally, in response to regional issues that may arise in the distribution and delivery of heating oil and natural gas, Governor Rowland and the other New England Governors recently established a regional power planning committee to monitor this winter's energy needs. Governor Rowland has appointed the Chairman of the Department of Public Utility Control and the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management to be his representatives on the committee. The committee has already met and will be meeting throughout the winter season on a regular basis. No Crisis or Safety Net benefits will be provided.
Households can apply at the beginning of the heating season as opposed to last season.