Proposed four-month extension of “no disconnection” policy
Dominion Energy Virginia continues assisting Virginia customers facing hardship amid the COVID-19. Committed to providing affordable energy, the Company is expanding its assistance by offering a more generous payment plan and new direct assistance, while asking permission from regulators for an additional four-month extension of the “no disconnection” policy.
Mission to support customers and communities
Dominion Energy recognizes the challenges that many are facing and wants customers to know they are here to help, as they continue to navigate this pandemic together.
Virginia’s disconnection policy, implemented after the company’s voluntary suspension, is due to expire June 15. To create certainty for customers, the Company is requesting the SCC to allow the company a four-month extension of the disconnection policy, through October 14. They are also requesting to continue waiving late fees through that period.
Encouraging customers to stay
During the time-period, Dominion will encourage customers to continue working to develop payment plans for their unique circumstances. The re-evaluation on a range of factors includes:
● Payment Plans: Starting June 15, Dominion will expand long-term payment plans and offer customers up to 12 months to pay past due amounts, with no minimum down payment required.
● Payment Assistance: While increasing the benefits made available through EnergyShare, the Virginia program supported with $13 million in annual corporate contributions that are implemented in partnership with relief and community support agencies. Planned changes include:
- Effective June 1, the maximum benefit is increased to $1,200 for this year, up from $900.
- Customers under the age of 60 are now eligible to receive funds without a disconnect notice, similar to customers 60 and over.
- The Company is preparing to increase EnergyShare funding to help meet the needs of our Virginia customers and intend to implement a temporary program to help small business customers.
● Save on Energy: For some customers, additional time at home and higher energy usage could result in increased bills.
● Protect Yourself from Scams: As the pandemic spread, a spike in scams has been noticed. Remember that Dominion Energy will never call and demand immediate payment or ask for payment on a pre-paid debit or gift card.
