Heating season ends, utility disconnections begin

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) encourages utility customers to stay connected as the heating season comes to an end.

The PSC advises consumers to contact their local utility company if they have fallen behind in their utility.

Utility service may be disconnected on or after April 16 if energy bills have not been paid or a payment plan has not been arranged with the utility.

To provide health and safety protections during Wisconsin’s cold winter months, PSC rules prohibit utilities from disconnecting consumers between Nov. 1 and April 15 for nonpayment of utility bills. However, after April 15, utilities are not required to provide service to customers who are behind on their bills.

Consumers who have contacted their utility, but cannot reach a payment agreement should contact the Public Service Commission Consumer Affairs at (800) 225-7729.

Utility companies must inform customers before discontinuing service. In addition, the PSC strongly encourages consumers to be cautious when using alternative heat sources, such as electric space heaters. These devices are not designed or intended to be used as a primary heating source. If left unattended or around children, the heaters can be very dangerous.

For more information about utility disconnections, see the PSC’s Utility Disconnections brochure at psc.wi.gov/thelibrary/publications/general/consumer04.pdf.

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