Help is available for Wisconsinites who still don't have their heat reconnected. With colder weather setting in across much of the state, Linda Barth with the Public Service Commission says residents who had their heat disconnected because of unpaid bills should be looking for help. She suggests they contact their local utility and work out a payment plan for any outstanding balance left from the previous year.
Barth says programs do exist for those who may be having trouble paying their heating bill. The state offers some low income energy assistance and others can use special programs that help them make homes more energy-efficient.
A statewide moratorium kicks in on November 1st, which prevents utilities from turning off the heat for unpaid bills. That only applies if the heat has already been turned on. Families unable to reach a payment plan with their utility can contact the PSC at 1-800-225-7729.
Related links: State energy assistance website