Georgia Power to extend its suspension of disconnects during COVID-19 crisis
Georgia Power will extend its suspension of disconnections following an approval to do so by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC).
Georgia Power initially said it would suspend disconnects in mid-March for at least 30 days to assist customers through this challenging period. With this approval by the commission, that now extends beyond the original timeframe. Thus, the suspension of disconnects will remain in place as the pandemic continues to impact customers in the state.
“We recognize the extraordinary burden the COVID-19 pandemic has put upon our state and our customers,” Paul Bowers, chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power, said. “We commend the Commissioners for their vote to extend the disconnect suspension and allow for special customer payment provisions. It is going to take all of us continuing to think about how we can support each other to see our communities through this uncertain time.”
Further, Georgia Power expects the PSC to vote in May on its request to lower its Fuel Cost Recovery allowance. If approved, this would lower monthly bills by approximately $5 for the typical residential customer using 1,000 kWh per month. The lower rate would go into effect in June 2020.
Georgia Power and the PSC are encouraging all customers to continue making payments to avoid large balance due amounts when the suspension ends. The company will also implement special payment plans to help customers catch up on past-due amounts once disconnections are reinstated. Customers can pay their bill online on GeorgiaPower.com with a credit or debit card or with a checking or savings account. The company has eliminated fees associated with credit and debit card payments.
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company. The company serves 2.6 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties.
