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PARKERSBURG -- Dominion Energy West Virginia has announced plans to help customers financially impacted by the pandemic and also announced a donation to a non-profit that supports households experiencing hardships by providing utility assistance and other services.
The utility donated $25,000 to the Dollar Energy Fund.
"With the surge in unemployment claims due to the coronavirus, we know more customers may qualify for utility assistance this year, and we want you to know, we have programs and payment options to help you move forward," said Jim Eck, vice president and general Manager, West Virginia Distribution. "If you're having trouble paying your bill, we're here to help you find the best option for your unique situation."
Dominion Energy announced expanded bill payment plans to help customers facing economic hardship. Customers are encouraged to make payment arrangements and discuss options.
A gradual return to normal credit procedures with payment flexibility, waiving deposit requirements and late fees will take place, the company said.
On March 12, Dominion Energy voluntarily suspended disconnections for customers falling behind on their bills, while offering a range of assistance to help them.
The decision was later affirmed by the Public Service Commission. Recognizing that this could not be sustained indefinitely, the commission asked utilities to submit plans for resumption of normal credit procedures.
The plan sets forth Dominion Energy's timeline to resume normal credit operations this month. This includes service terminations for customers who fail to pay. Moving forward, the company will continue to look at all options to help customers and has chosen to continue waiving reconnection fees and late payment charges.
During the period ahead, the company encourages customers to take advantage of the resources being made available, chief among them more flexible payment plans. Customers can learn more by calling 1-800-688-4673. Information is also available 24/7 online at DominionEnergy.com.
"We are taking additional customer assistance steps, such as waiving deposit requirements and stopping late fees from accruing," Eck said. "If you've fallen behind, please let us help."
If customers are having trouble paying their bills, the company offers both short-term payment extensions and long-term payment plans to help customers manage their balances and catch up over time. We encourage any customer who needs guidance on assistance options to call 1-800-688-4673.
* Budget Plus -- This plan helps customers pay off past due balances by spreading the arrears over 12 months. Customers must also pay their monthly budget amount.
* Current Plus -- Customers pay their current charges each month along with equal payments toward the past due amount over a period of 2-12 months.
Residential customers can call WV 2-1-1 for help in locating community resources.
For some customers, additional time at home and higher natural gas usage could result in increased bills. Dominion Energy has put together a series of tips to help you be mindful of your energy use. Visit www.DominionEnergy.com/WaysToSave.
Customers also need to protect themselves from scams, the company said. Scams are on the rise.
Dominion Energy will never call and demand immediate payment or ask for payment on a pre-paid debit or gift card. If customers are unsure if a call is valid, even if Dominion Energy's phone number shows on the caller ID, they should not provide any information. They should hang up and call Dominion Energy at 1-800-688-4673.