Moratorium extended for cutting off utility service
The Public Service Commission (PSC) of Wisconsin, has voted 2-1, to continue to stay a portion of its June 26 order, extending the moratorium on utility residential customer disconnections and refusal of service for non-payment until Oct. 1. The additional time will allow PSC staff to collect more data and information from utilities, on their disconnection plans and collections, and monitor further the spread of COVID-19 in the state.
Previously, the moratorium was scheduled to be up in September. The move to continue it, comes as COVID-19 positive cases in Wisconsin, continue to be reported in high numbers across the state.
“We continue to base our decisions on the data presented to us and what is in the public interest.” said PSC chairperson Rebecca Cameron Valcq. “The high incidence of COVID- 19 across our state, has not diminished. At this time, an extension of the moratorium is necessary to support public health and safety.”
In light of the extension, the PSC is still strongly urging customers to seek a payment plan with their utility, or apply for energy assistance to avoid a large debt and possible disconnection when the moratorium ends.
If customers are having difficulty paying their energy bills, they may be eligible for assistance from the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP). To determine eligibility or find out where to apply for assistance, visit homeenergyplus. wi.gov, or call 1-866-HEATWIS.
If customers cannot reach an agreement with their utility, they are urged to contact the PSC, by calling 1-800-225-7729, or by filing a complaint on the PSC website.
