State-Mandated Michigan
Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund (LIEAF)

New: State-Mandated Energy Assistance Fee

Beginning September 1^st, 2025, Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP), along with all Michigan electric utilities, will begin collecting funds for the              Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund (LIEAF). This change is required by the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) to expand funding and eligibility under the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP).

What is LIEAF?

The Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund is a state-mandated program that helps eligible households receive energy assistance and avoid shutoffs. Funds are distributed through approved Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) agencies.

LIEAF Surcharge

• Amount: $1.25 per electric meter, per month
• Effective: September 2025 billing statements
• Where Funds Go: Funds collected will be distributed by MEAP Grantees to support income-eligible customers with electric bills in our community (to the extent possible).
• Bill Appearance: The charge will be listed as a separate line item on your electric bill as: Energy Assistance – Public Act 169.
• Purpose: Helps support statewide energy assistance programs for income-eligible households

Who Qualifies for Assistance?

To receive assistance, customers must meet state income eligibility guidelines, typically:

• Up to 60% of the State Median Income (SMI) based on household size
• Must be a Michigan resident
• Must have an active energy account in your name

You do not need to be behind on your bill to request help.

Current Income Eligibility Table: 

How to Apply for Assistance

Energy-assistance applications are processed by authorized MEAP agencies—not by TCLP directly.

Step 1 — Contact a Local MEAP Agency

Customers in the Traverse City area can apply through the following partner:

Salvation Army – Traverse City

• Phone: 231-946-4644
• Services: Bill payment assistance, energy crisis support, budgeting support, case management

Step 2 — Gather Required Documents

Most agencies will ask for:

• Verification of income for all adults in the household
• Photo ID
• Social Security cards (or alternative proof)
• Current utility bill
• Proof of residency

Step 3 — Submit Your Application

Applications may be completed:

• Online: Through the agency’s website or through MI Bridges
• By Phone: By calling the agency directly or 2-1-1
• In Person: At participating MEAP partner offices

Additional State Resources 

• MI Bridges: Apply for State Emergency Relief (SER) and other benefits
• Michigan 2-1-1: Connect with local assistance agencies
• MEAP Program Information: Overview of benefits and eligibility

Types of Assistance Available

Depending on your situation, MEAP agencies may be able to help with:

• Past-due electric bills
• Payment plans
• Shutoff protection
• Energy crisis assistance
• Budgeting and energy-efficiency counseling
• Referrals to weatherization programs

Services vary by agency and funding availability.

Need Help or Have Questions?

TCLP Customer Service

• Phone: 231-922-4940
• Email: customerservice@tclp.org

TCLP can guide you to the right resources, but applications must be completed through MEAP agencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

LIEAF Program Background 

• LIEAF was first launched in 2013 as an optional program.
• A 2024 amendment (Public Act 169) now requires all Michigan utilities to either:
  1. Participate in LIEAF, or
  2. Operate their own low-income assistance program that meets state requirements.
• In the past, TCLP opted out of LIEAF due to concerns that the funds collected through the program might be directed to areas outside of our community.
• For 2025–26, TCLP’s Board voted to opt in for a one-year trial to evaluate its effectiveness and determine the best long-term path.