Usually refers to programs set up and/or managed by utility companies which are designed to decrease the burden of utility costs for customers of limited means. These programs are usually targetted at specific classes of low-income residential consumers (e.g. unemployed or elderly customers) and institutional customers (e.g. schools, non-profit organizations, hospitals and other essential public-sector services).

Benefits provided by these programs can include forgiveness of arrearage (unpaid bills), "fuel funds" (charitable or sponsored), discounts, linking of energy costs to income, and protection against service disconnection in extreme weather. For institutional consumers these plans can also include free DSM (demand-side management) to assist in overall reduction in energy use.

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