Coronavirus and Your Utility Bills
The Coronavirus (or Covid-19) outbreak news over this weekend has left many working Maryland families wondering what’s going to happen in the wake of schools and many businesses closing. Folks want to know how they’ll make ends meet if they take sick leave or must stay home to look after children who aren’t in school. They’re also concerned about how they’ll be able to afford their electric bill at the end of the month.
Because we here at MD Energy Ratings monitor the news about Maryland energy prices and regulations, we’re going to stay on top this story to help our customers stay informed and ready.
Covid-19 Energy Service Disconnections
On March 16, 2020, Governor Lawrence Hogan ordered a utility service disconnection moratorium for both electricity and natural gas customers. The order will alleviate some of the burden for families facing financial hardship in Maryland. The order also prohibits utilities from charging late fees.
Meanwhile, the following Maryland utilities have made their own announcements:
- The state’s Exelon companies, BGE, Delmarva Power, and Pepco will all be suspending service disconnections and waiving new late payment charges at least until May 1. These utilities will be working with customers on a case-by-case basis to establish payment arrangements and identify energy assistance options.
- Potomac Edison (a First Edison company) has announced they are discontinuing power shutoffs for customers who are past due on their electric bills. Customers who face hardship paying their bill should contact their local First Energy Utility customer service to set up a payment plan.
Because this situation can change daily, customers should contact their local electricity utility to find out more about arranging late policy payments during the Coronavirus crisis.
We will post updates [blog address] about late fee and disconnection moratoriums for Maryland customers as we learn more.
Supplier Update
Constellation Energy (an Exelon Company) has announced in an email they are suspending disconnects and new late fees for natural gas and electricity service until May 1, 2020. The company has set up deferred payment plans. Customers needing assistance contact customer assistance.
Coronavirus Stay Safe in Maryland
We want all our customers to stay healthy and safe during this outbreak. To learn more about what you and your family can do, check out the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website. To learn more about the situation in Maryland visit the states Department of Health Coronavirus Outbreak page.