PECO will restore disconnected customers
Called an “unprecedented” move, PECO will reconnect customers whose electricity or gas has been disconnected.
PHILADELPHIA » In what it calls an “unprecedented” move, PECO has announced it will reconnect customers whose electricity or gas has been disconnected by the company.
It is something the company said it has not done before, and is in direct response to the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and in recognition that more people are at home during the day as businesses and schools are closed.
“We provide an important service and recognize that our customers are relying on electricity during this critical time,” Mike Innocenzo, PECO president and CEO, said in a press release. “We need to come together in support of one another during this time, ensuring every customer has access to safe and reliable electric service is just one of the many ways we are doing just that.”
PECO customers that have had had their electricity or gas disconnected by the company are encouraged to contact PECO at 1-800-494-4000 to begin the reconnection process.
No new connection fees or deposits will be required. Customers will continue to be responsible for previous unpaid balances, the company said.
When contacting the company, customers will need to have an address, social security number or an old account number to help identify the service location, according to PECO spokesman Tom Brubaker.
PECO will not restore service where unsafe conditions exist, and will work with agencies to assist in correcting those unsafe conditions. Brubaker added that as long as conditions are safe at the location, electricity can likely be restored the same day. Restoration of gas service can take a little longer he said, because the process can be a bit more involved.
Brubaker said the company has already gotten calls about getting power restored, but can’t estimate of how many customers may take advantage of the offer.
“We encourage all who are out of service at this time to call,” he added.
As part of the re-connection process, PECO Customer Care Associates will work with customers to help those in need and expand awareness of programs to help customers stay connected to service, according to Brubaker.
“Customers are reminded of payment options like budget billing and flexible payment arrangements to help manage bills,” he added.
In addition, the company said it works with community and government partners to provide assistance to customers, including:
• Customer Assistance Program (CAP): An annual credit on a customer’s bill based on the total household income and the customer’s energy use.
• Low-income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): A Federal grant program to help low-income customers manage their energy costs and ensure service during the heating season.
• Matching Energy Assistance Fund (MEAF): A program funded by voluntary contributions of citizens and matched dollar for dollar by PECO.
• Customer Assistance and Referral Evaluation Services (CARES): A referral and information service designed to assist customers who have temporary personal or financial hardships.
Customers may also register for “My Account,” a webbased interactive tool that provides them with a detailed analysis of their specific energy use and offers ways to save money and energy. Visit peco.com/myaccount or PECO’s free mobile app for more information.