Through energy bill assistance and essential resources, Entergy has helped vulnerable customers save on energy costs and access support
Originally published by Essence
By Cristina del Canto
Sponsored by Entergy
For more than a century, Entergy has provided reliable, affordable power to the communities they serve across Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. But the company’s mission extends far beyond delivering electricity. Their commitment comes to life through an extensive set of customer programs designed to support families facing financial challenges, and partnerships that are expanding economic opportunity across the Gulf South region.
Many households in the Gulf South’s communities experience persistent financial hardship, and energy insecurity can affect every aspect of life, from health to housing to economic mobility. Entergy invests in targeted solutions that help customers stay connected and maintain stability. In 2000, Entergy was one of the first public utilities to develop specific low-income customer assistance programs. Today, the company offers a wide range of resources that make it easier for individuals and families to navigate difficult circumstances. These include direct financial assistance, flexible billing options and partnerships with community organizations that help customers access federal and state aid.
One of Entergy’s most helpful tools for customers is the Bill Toolkit website, which provides bill management resources, energy efficiency guidance and links to financial assistance programs. The Power to Care program offers emergency bill payment relief for older adults and customers with disabilities, ensuring that those who are most vulnerable can maintain access to essential electric service. Through Entergy’s partnership with Single Stop, a one-stop online platform, their customers can also easily identify available financial assistance, education, training and other support resources.
During the extreme heat of summer 2025, Entergy shareholders, customers, employees and retirees together donated $3 million to help customers who are struggling to pay their energy bills. Through the “Beat the Heat” program, Entergy offers bill payment assistance, cooling fans, energy efficiency kits, home weatherization help and collaboration with local community organizations.
Entergy’s customer programs even extend to their hosting of Super Tax Days at various Volunteer Income Tax Assistance sites, which provide free tax preparation services that help eligible families maximize refunds and access critical tax credits. Those tax refunds can make a big difference to a household struggling to make ends meet.
“Of course we offer things like other utilities, including home energy audits, rebates and incentives that help customers lower their consumption and reduce monthly bills,” said John Hudson, Entergy’s chief external affairs officer and president of the Entergy Charitable Foundation. “But what we are really trying to achieve is a comprehensive set of programs that create a more stable path forward for our customers who may otherwise face difficult choices.”
Entergy’s approach to affordability extends beyond their customers’ current energy bills. The company is investing in grid modernization and energy efficiency improvements that lower long-term delivery costs, enhance reliability, and build a more sustainable energy future. Customers and communities benefit through fewer outages, stable energy rates, and programs that help reduce usage and expenses.
Affordability also ties to economic growth for the Gulf South region. Entergy’s specialized services for large commercial users and data centers are attracting major industries, creating jobs and strengthening local economies. Through the company’s Fair Share Plus pledge, these large customers are paying the full cost of their required infrastructure upgrades, helping keep rates lower for households and small businesses. Across Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi, these projects are expected to save Entergy customers about $7 billion over 20 years.
Entergy remains committed to supporting its most vulnerable customers and fostering more resilient communities through partnerships that are transforming the Gulf South region.
