PURA Extends COVID-19 Payment Program Enrollment Date

Winter Protection Program Also Now in Effect 

I just wanted you to know that the Connecticut’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) is reminding all customers that the enrollment period for the COVID-19 Payment Program for both residential and non-residential customers is extended through at least February 9, 2021. Further, the Winter Protection Program, which protects eligible households against heat source shut-offs during the winter months, is also in effect from November 1, 2020 through May 1, 2021.

PURA encourages customers experiencing difficulty paying their utility bills to contact their utility company and ask:

• First, whether the residential customer is eligible to be “coded hardship” and enrolled in the Winter Protection Program.
• Second, if ineligible for hardship status or a non-residential customer, to enroll in a COVID-19 Payment Plan.

All customers with past due balances are eligible to avoid utility shut-offs by enrolling in one of the programs provided by the state-regulated water, electric and gas utilities, Operation Fuel, or the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS).

Importantly, no customer actively enrolled in a COVID-19 Payment Program can have their service terminated for non-payment. COVID-19 payment plans are available to any residential or non-residential customer requesting assistance, without demonstrating financial need; require no initial or down payment, can be up to 24 months in length; waive any fees or interest in the calculation of the monthly payment amount; and facilitate the repayment of the past due balances in addition to the customer’s monthly bill.

For more information, contact your utility or PURA’s Consumer Affairs.