PLAINFIELD — Duke Energy is providing $300,000 in energy assistance funds to help Hoosiers who may be struggling to pay their energy bills during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement, the company also said eligible residential customers can avoid disconnections for nonpayment if they establish a payment plan, which can now extend up to 12 months.
"We know the pandemic continues to be a financial hardship for many," Duke Energy Indiana President Stan Pinegar said. "These funds, in combination with federal Low-Income Energy Assistance dollars administered by the state, can help hundreds of Hoosiers with energy costs during a challenging time."
The company said it is working with the Indiana Community Action Association and the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority's Energy Assistance Program, which determines eligibility and distributes the company's assistance funds.
In order to receive funds from Duke, recipients must be Duke Energy customers and meet income eligibility requirements.
"While the Indiana Community Action Agency network can help in many ways, the Duke Energy Helping Hand Program is a valuable resource during uncertain times as moratoriums on utility disconnections and evictions expire," Ed Gerardot, executive director of the Indiana Community Action Association, said.
Duke Energy Indiana suspended service disconnections for nonpayment until Sept. 15 for customers who were experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The deadline gave customers an extra month beyond the state's current disconnection moratorium to make payment arrangements.
Customers who are behind on Duke Energy bills are encouraged to call the company at 800-521-2232 to establish payment arrangements.
