BERLIN, Conn. — You may soon lose your service if you’re an Eversource customer who has missed multiple payments.
On Wednesday, the energy company announced to customers that the utility service shutoff policy for those who don't pay their bills will resume May 2. This is regardless of "hardship status," the company said, stating that service shut-off is considered a "last resort."
Eversource said they put all service shut-offs on hold beginning in March 2020 as they didn’t want people to struggle even more during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Eversource has now said that customers' unpaid bills have become an issue for everyone. In a statement, the company said there are about $160 million in unpaid electric bills. Eversource said this puts a strain on every customer since the company said it is "raising rates to compensate for unpaid services."
Eversource announced the rate increase proposal in February. If approved, it could raise bills by about $38 a month.
The company said that over the last several years, state regulators have changed how electric distribution companies charge for the supply and other costs covered by the electric companies for their customers.
According to Eversource, the supply charges and other annual costs are passed through "reconciling rates" outside the base rates due to these changes. Most of the increased costs can be seen in the Public Benefits portion of customers' electric bills.
Eversource said they are trying to work with multiple state agencies and policymakers to "collaborate on a thoughtful solution for customers" regarding the possible rate hike.
If you need help paying your Eversource bill, the company listed resources that may help:
Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) - The state will provide energy assistance for winter heating costs for thousands of Connecticut homeowners and renters. Households can get up to $530 in CEAP funds this winter heating season. Customers can apply online or directly with their local Community Action Agency (CAA). Visit 211.ct.org or call 211 to find the closest agency.
The Matching Payment Program - This can lower customers' energy bill debts. For every dollar they pay and receive from the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program, Eversource will subtract a dollar from their debt. See if you qualify and enroll here.
The New Start Program - This program can help pay off a past-due balance for customers in as little as 12 months. With on-time monthly payments, some of what is owed will be subtracted each month. Learn more here.
Electric Bill Discount - Customers may be eligible for a 10% or 50% discount on their electric bill per month based on their household income or receipt of a public assistance benefit. Learn more here.
Flexible Payment Plans with Eversource are available for all customers, regardless of income, to pay their past-due balance over a period of time. Residential customers with active service may be eligible for payment plans up to 18 months.
All Eversource customers are encouraged to sign up for a payment plan or assistance program the energy company offers and are urged to call Eversource at 800-286-2828 or visit their website to find the right plan for them.
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Brooke Griffin is a reporter for FOX61 News. She can be reached at bgriffin@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
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