On this episode, our goal is to help listeners better understand how energy assistance is administered, how pandemic-related funding is being distributed, and what resources are available to in-need households as Wisconsin’s moratorium on disconnecting electric customers from service comes to an end on April 15.
Our guests include:
Barb Klug, Home Energy Plus Bureau Director; Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources
Wisconsin Department of Administration
Kristy Nieto, Administrator, Division of Digital Access, Consumer and Environmental Affairs
Public Service Commission of Wisconsin
You’ll find answers to these questions and more:
What energy assistance funding has come from the federal government since the beginning of the pandemic and how is Wisconsin administering programs to distribute this assistance?
What is a first step for a customer who is behind on their bill? Who should they reach out to first and how do they know what they are eligible for?
What role does the PSC play in helping customers stay on track with paying their bills and settling any disputes with utilities?
What are some common questions from legislative offices as they try to connect their constituents with resources?
The following resources are mentioned in this episode:
Energy Benefits & Eligibility
www.energybenefit.wi.gov - Home Energy Plus Application
1-800-506-5596 – On-demand energy assistance application and customer care center
Public Service Commission Resources
Call 1-800-225-7729 to talk to a customer care representative at the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin or visit www.psc.wi.gov to find information or file a complaint online. More information from the PSC can be found in this press release: PSC Urges Consumers to Seek Assistance before Moratorium on Utility Disconnections End
Noted in the podcast: Customers should reach out to their local utility provider first to begin the process of working out a payment plan if they’re at risk of disconnection for non-payment.
