RELAC was a private utility created during the 1960s that provided chilled water for air conditioning services to several hundred residents and a few businesses in clusters and condominiums near Lake Anne. As a private utility it was regulated by the State Corporate Commission. After 60 years, RELAC permanently ceased its operations in October 2025.
Cooling Assistance Programs and Resources
Below is an initial list of resources provided by Fairfax County and others for former RELAC customers, if needed:
AC Rescue provides small air conditioning units (portable AC, window AC), installations, and HVAC repairs for households who make up to 80% of Area Median Income. AC Rescue is open year-round to all ages and abilities. AC Rescue is a Resilient Fairfax program, with a goal of reducing heat-related illnesses as temperatures rise. The program is managed by the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC). The primary contractor is Rebuilding Together. (Learn more about the main differences between the four main cooling programs in Fairfax County.)
Cooling Assistance
Cooling Assistance is a program designed to help vulnerable Fairfax County residents during the summer months. To be eligible, at least one household member must be: 60 or older, 5 or younger, or disabled according to Social Security, Medicaid or 100% Veteran’s Administration.
Applications for Cooling Assistance are accepted June 15 to Aug. 15, which includes:
- Payment of electric bills to operate cooling equipment.
- Payment of security deposits for electricity to operate cooling equipment for accounts in danger of being disconnected or when a deposit is needed to begin service.
- Repair of a central air conditioning system or heat pump.
- Purchase of a whole-house fan, including ceiling or attic fans when there is no other working cooling equipment in the home.
- Purchase and installation, or self-pick-up, of one air conditioning unit (window or portable) for households when there is no other working cooling equipment in the home.
Home Weatherization Program
Community Housing Partners (CHP) Weatherization program helps low-income individuals and families reduce energy costs by improving the energy efficiency and health of homes using the federal Weatherization Assistance Program and other funding sources. The program includes energy audits and repairs to home heating and cooling systems, especially for households with elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and families with children.
Percentage of Income Payment Program (PIPP)
Dominion Energy’s PIPP program helps customers with year-round assistance managing their electricity bills. Eligible customers make payments based on their household income instead of their utility bill amount. To qualify, you must have a household income less than 150% of the federal poverty guidelines. Call Dominion’s customer service line to determine if you should apply for PIPP: 866-366-4357. If you qualify, you may apply online for the program or by calling 1-833-522-5582. Receive a paper application from the Fairfax County Department of Family Services by calling 703-324-7500.
Senior Cool Care Program
This program provides fans for cooling. Call 703-324-7948 for more information.
- Runs from May 1 through Oct. 31.
- Must be 60 or older.
Legal Services of Northern Virginia
Program free support to older adults (60 and older) to navigate legal responses or support to have their rental administration provide air or cooling options. Call 703-324-7948 for more information.