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Mandatory ban on utility shut-offs across Arizona has been lifted

Corporation Commission sets hearings APS rate increase
Posted at 5:11 PM, Oct 15, 2019
and last updated 2019-10-15 23:32:58-04

PHOENIX — With cooler weather now in the forecast, the mandatory ban on utility shut-offs across the state has been lifted.

The moratorium, in place since June, was enacted by the Arizona Corporation Commission (AZCC) after it learned of the death of an Arizona Public Service (APS) customer whose power had been cut during hot weather in 2018. The moratorium ends Tuesday.

In its biweekly reporting on disconnections, APS reported that as of October 11, customers owe $30.6 million on 88,074 delinquent accounts.

That compares to roughly $10.2 million owed during the same period in 2018.

APS customers can apply for long-term assistance through its Energy Support Program. Itprovides a monthly 25 percent monthly discount. The discount increases to 35 percent if there is medical equipment involved.

There are also several routes to take with non-profits to get assistance paying your bill.

APS says delinquent accounts more than $75 will be enrolled in a four-month payment plan and there are no immediate disconnects on Wednesday. The company says no fees will be assessed from the moratorium.

"All we're asking is that customers pay the actual cost of the energy they used and, again, that will be split over the four months," said APS Program Manager Annette Carrier.

Carrier says customers who need more time to pay past the four months should contact APS for additional options.