; 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 to low-income households as reflected in utility rate increases and the near-term incremental costs of accelerating, expanding, or enhancing improvements to the natural gas distribution system included in the State-approved plan. (e) Limit to transitional assistance A State may provide funds to a natural gas distribution 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 an eligible project carried out pursuant to 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