Utility disconnection moratorium starts Nov. 1

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) is encouraging electric and natural gas utility customers with outstanding bills to either make payment arrangements with their provider, or apply for financial assistance, before the annual winter heating disconnection moratorium begins.

Wisconsin state law prohibits utilities from disconnecting essential services to residential customers during the moratorium period. Every year, from Nov. 1 to April 15, utilities are prohibited from disconnecting utility service for nonpayment when it is used for home heating.

Customers that are currently disconnected must make arrangements to restore service because utilities are not required to reconnect service until payment arrangements have been made.

Customers should contact their utility provider to make a payment or arrange a payment plan. Locally, most residents are serviced by Wisconsin Public Service Corporation, 800-450-7260, or We Energies, 800-842-4565.

If customers cannot reach an agreement with their utility, they may contact the PSC by calling 608-266-2001 or 1-800-225-7729, or visiting psc.wi.gov and filing a utility complaint under the For Consumers drop down tab.

Financial assistance is available to eligible households through the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP).

WHEAP is part of the state’s comprehensive Home Energy Plus program, which provides assistance for low-income households with emergency energy needs, emergency furnace repairs, conservation service, and weatherization. Customers can contact the Statewide Customer Care Center at 800-506-5596 or visit energyandhousing.wi.gov/Pages/Energy.aspx for more information about this program.