APS extends disconnect moratorium through end of year as result of deadly heat, COVID-19

Pointing to losses of income and heightened uncertainty due to COVID-19 and a record heat spell, APS has waived disconnects for past due bills and the accumulation of late fees through the rest of 2020 for residential and business customers.

APS, which serves nearly 1.3 million homes and businesses in Arizona, first suspended disconnects and began waiving late fees as of March 13, when the COVID-19 pandemic began to pick up in the United States. On June 1, a seasonal hold on disconnects took over, but this would have expired on Oct. 15. Now, non-payment cannot be a reason for disconnection through at least Dec. 31, 2020.

“Across Arizona, we have faced the challenges of this pandemic and record summer temperatures together, and we are here to help and work with our customers,” Monica Whiting, vice president of customer experience at APS, said. “As a local company with a commitment to the communities we serve, APS is offering peace of mind for those unable to currently pay their bill. Additionally, our essential workers remain dedicated to providing reliable electrical and customer service around the clock.”

In the meantime, APS continues to urge customers to find assistance if already behind on balances owed. APS itself offers certain programs to address this, such as flexibility in paying past due bills and support programs, including $100 one-time bill credits for residents and $1,000 for small businesses, along with up to $800 per year crisis bill assistance coupled with 25 percent discounts on energy use. The company has also put up $8 million for pandemic relief.

Whiting urged those in need to seek assistance as early as possible, though, to avoid an end of year rush.