COVID-19

Utilities disconnect 116,000 Pa. households after state lifts moratorium on pandemic shutoffs

Pennsylvania utilities have cut off service to 116,000 customers for nonpayment since the state lifted a moratorium on shutoffs on April 1 after a ...Read more

Making sense of the eviction crisis

This article details the ever-pressing housing crisis that has been exacerbated by the pandemic. That being said, even while specific and targeted assistance was set aside for homeless and transient homeless people, it was limited to only half a million counted homeless people, when in reality...Read more

Help All Students #LogOnPHL

This article discusses a new hotline set up to help students and families navigate this new school year. It was written by Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenny and superintendent William Hite Jr. One thing I have noticed in every article I have found is the increasing usage of the term "digital divide...Read more

COVID-19: Government to absorb electricity bills for the poor, others to enjoy 50% slash.

To be taking an energy vulnerability class during a pandemic like this I must say has been a blessing. This is because, with the knowledge I am attaining on this subject matter, I am beginning to understand what energy vulnerability is, and the extent to which it is a world-wide concern even in...Read more

Philadelphia seeks 16.9% water rate increase, citing revenue erosion from pandemic

In mid-February, the Philadelphia Water Department announced it was seeking a 16.9% residential rate increase phased in over two years that...Read more

PHLRentAssist Phase 4 Frequently Asked Questions

This artifact contains frequently asked questions for Phase 4 of Philadelphia's rental assistance program. Read more

PWD Exhibit 1 - Notification of Rate Filing (Supplemented as of Formal Filing)

This artifact contains the following documentation regarding the proposed Philadelphia Water Department rate increase: 

  • Advance Notification of Rate Filing to the Philadelphia Water Sewer and StormWater Rate Board 
  • Advance Notification of Rate Filing to the Philadelphia City
  • ...Read more
How coronavirus is changing electricity usage, in 3 charts

This news article talks about shifting energy demand during COVID-19, focusing on California, New York, and Italy. Data is taking from electricity grids and shows that there is a reduced overall demand on the grid -- so even with increased usage in households, the amount of energy consumption is...Read more

COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program Phase 4 Flyer

This flyer contains information on Phase 4 of Philadelphia's rental assistance program, which provides relief to tenants facing financial hardships due to COVID-19. Funding was authorized by the federal government, and Philadelphia has about $97 million to spend on rental assistance and utility...Read more

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