GRIMES, Iowa – March 25, 2021 – April 1 is an important date to observe as the end of the annual Iowa Winter Moratorium, and rules governing payment arrangements, energy assistance and bill-related service interruption changes until next fall. This date is important to remember for any customer anticipating a budget crunch ahead with their bills.

Natural gas utility Black Hills Energy is encouraging any customer struggling with their budget to call the company to explore its billing options and payment plans toll-free at 888-890-5554. Black Hills Energy also provides contact information for local energy assistance agencies the company partners with, including the Iowa Community Action Association. This information is available at blackhillsenergy.com/billing-and-payments/assistance-programs/iowa-assistance-programs.

Customers are urged to call as soon as possible. “We want to help our customers all we can,” said Shirley Welte, Black Hills Energy’s vice president of Iowa operations. “There are more payment options and assistance available to customers who call before their bill is past due.” Energy assistance agencies receive a portion of their funding from the Black Hills Cares program. “Black Hills Energy matches tax-deductible donations from employees and customers, and we forward the total to the local community action agency for distribution,” Welte said.

Black Hills Energy provides space on its bills to allow customers to make an optional one-time or monthly donation to Black Hills Cares. Information on Black Hills Cares, energy assistance and all of the other energy solutions Black Hills Energy offers is available at blackhillsenergy.com/bhcares or by calling Black Hills Energy toll-free at 888-890-5554.