Fayetteville, Ark. – April 1, 2021 – At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Black Hills Energy understood many customers could be facing financial hardships. As a result, the company showed their support by temporarily suspending nonpayment disconnections for all customers. 

The Arkansas Public Service Commission COVID-19 restrictions on disconnections will be lifted on May 3, 2021. Now, as communities work to find a new normal, Black Hills Energy is working hard to ensure their customers know of the many options for financial support available to them as part of a proactive outreach for assistance. The company has shared several possible solutions, information and resources available to customers to ensure they take full advantage of those options.

“Our normal has always meant supporting our customers and communities, and it still does, which is why we support making available several programs to help those who have been financially impacted by COVID-19,” Chad Kinsley, vice president of Arkansas gas operations.

Customers are encouraged to participate in the following programs if they find themselves struggling to pay their utility bills during this time:  

• Budget Billing is a free, stable payment plan. It gives customers more predictable bills by averaging the amount they pay each month. 
• Payment arrangements provide extended payment terms to help customers get back on track. A customer can enter into one of these flexible arrangements online or by calling 888-890-5554. 
• Hearts Warming Homes, a program provided in partnership with The Salvation Army and Black Hills Energy/Black Hills Cares, is an energy assistance program offering financial aid to residents who need assistance paying for home heating expenses. The program uses voluntary donations from Black Hills Energy employees and customers. All contributions are matched dollar for dollar by Black Hills Energy. If you’d like to help families in your community, check the box on your payment stub.
• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in Arkansas is operated by a network of fifteen Community Action Agencies (CAA) which serves all seventy-five counties.
• Medical extensions offer residential customers, with a medical certificate, a limited extension of time to pay their utility bill.
• 211.org is a comprehensive source of social services information in the US. This free service connects millions of people to help in meeting essential needs and more.
• Additional assistance programs are available in certain areas. Contact us to learn more.

“Black Hills Energy has always set a priority to do all we can to keep the gas flowing in the communities we serve, particularly during times of hardship,” said Kinsley. “As we all transition into a new normal, Black Hills Energy will continue to take steps to support our customers as they continue to rebound from the effects of COVID-19.”

To learn more about what the company is doing to assist customers, please visit blackhillsenergy.com/covid-ar or call 888-890-5554.