Texas residents struggling to keep up with summer electricity bills have an important protection on their side. In certain extreme-heat conditions, power companies are not allowed to disconnect service for nonpayment.
That means some households may be able to keep the lights and air conditioning on while getting more time to pay — and, in some cases, set up a plan that breaks a large bill into more manageable chunks.
Here's what to know
The Public Utility Commission of Texas says state consumer-protection rules can prevent electric shutoffs during officially recognized extreme weather emergencies, including dangerous heat, San Saba News & Star reported.
In Texas' deregulated market, the PUCT says those requirements apply to retail electric providers, which must provide deferred payment plans when a bill comes due during an extreme weather emergency.
Under the commission's rules, whether conditions qualify as an extreme weather emergency is based on National Weather Service advisory criteria.
The commission is also urging anyone dealing with unusually high power bills to contact their electric provider and ask what assistance may be available.
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More background
The reminder carries particular weight in Texas, where long stretches of intense heat can send electricity use soaring as families rely on air conditioning to stay safe. For many households, that can mean much higher-than-normal bills at exactly the wrong time.
It can also become a health and safety issue, especially for older adults, children, and people with medical conditions who may be more vulnerable when indoor temperatures rise.
The PUCT said, as the outlet reported, separate protections are available for ill or disabled consumers who can document that losing electric service would cause illness or worsen a medical condition.
The agency says more information is available on its Know Your Rights webpage.
What can be done?
Before a missed payment turns into a larger problem, Texans concerned about summer electricity costs can contact their provider. They can ask whether the current weather meets the emergency standard and, if a bill becomes due during that period, request a deferred payment plan.
Customers facing higher-than-normal charges can also ask their provider about hardship relief or other bill-payment help. For information on programs available in their area, the PUCT says Texans can call 2-1-1.
If a customer believes those protections are not being honored, the commission says, as reported by San Saba News & Star, the first step is to try resolving the matter with the provider.
As PUCT Executive Director Connie Corona put it, as the outlet reported: "Our rules help ensure Texans have the power they need to stay safe during extreme summer heat while they work to pay their electric bills without risking disconnection."
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