; or (2) inspection and maintenance programs for the natural gas distribution system. (d) Rate assistance A natural gas distribution company receiving funds through a grant to a State under this section may use such funds only to offset the near-term incremental costs, as reflected in rate increases to low-income households, of the eligible project. (e) Limit to transitional assistance A State may provide funds to a natural gas company under this section for a period not to exceed 4 years. (f) Prioritization In awarding grants under this section, the Secretary shall prioritize applications based on the expected results of the State proposal with respect to— (1) quantifiable benefits for public safety; (2) the magnitude of methane emissions reductions; (3) innovation in technical or policy approaches; (4) the number of low-income households anticipated to benefit from the assistance