AUGUSTA, Maine (WGAN) Maine’s Public Utilities Commission has approved a one-time bill credit for 90,000 low-income electricity customers.

The PUC announced Thursday that the $90 credit will be applied this March for Central Maine Power and Versant customers. It will provide about $8 million in relief to customers with household incomes at or below 150% of federal poverty guidelines.

The program’s costs are covered by the Maine State Housing Authority through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

“We recognize the importance of this assistance during a time when energy costs are increasing globally,” said Commission Chairman Philip L. Bartlett II. “We also have an open proceeding looking at revising our Low-income Assistance Program to provide longer term relief for utility customers most in need. For those still in need of assistance, we urge you to speak with your utility or visit the Commission website at www.Maine.gov/MPUCfor a full list of assistance programs.”

Households that qualify will receive the credit by around March 30th.