RAPID CITY, S.D. – July 14, 2020 – With the continuance of the COVID-19 pandemic, Black Hills Energy understood many of their customers could be facing financial hardships. As a result, the company showed their support by temporarily suspending nonpayment disconnections and late-payment charges effective March 16, 2020. 

Now, as communities work to find a new normal, Black Hills Energy will be resuming their standard collection processes as of July 13, 2020. The company 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,”

“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,” said Marc Eyre, vice president of electric operations in South Dakota. 

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

• Low Income Energy Assistance, offered through South Dakota’s Department of Social Services, received additional funding through the Cares Act and is offering a program for eligible households during the summer months to assist with electric disconnects.  For more information visit dss.sd.gov or call 800-233-8503.
• 211.org is a comprehensive source of free social services information in the U.S. Call the 211 Helpline for help in meeting essential needs and more.
• County Emergency Assistance, is offered through some counties, including Pennington County.
• Black Hills Cares helps eligible residential customers in need pay their Black Hills Energy bills or emergency energy-related expenses. The program uses voluntary donations from our employees and customers and match those contributions dollar for dollar. In western South Dakota, we partner with the following organizations who distribute Black Hills Cares funds to families in need:
  • Salvation Army
  • Church Response
  • Sturgis Alliance of Churches
  • Hot Springs Ministerial Association
  • Custer Ministerial Association
  • Newell/Vale/Nisland Ministerial Association
  • Christian Life Center/Compassion Cupboard (Belle Fourche)
• Budget billing is a free, stable payment plan. It gives customer’s more predictable bills by averaging the amount you pay each month. 
• Payment arrangements provide extended payment terms to help customer’s get back on track. A customer can enter into one of these flexible arrangements online or by calling 888-890-5554. 
• Medical extensions offer qualifying residential customers a limited extension of time to pay their utility bill.
• 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 lights on and the gas flowing in the communities we serve, particularly during times of hardship,” said Eyre. “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-SD or give us a call at 888-890-5554 to discuss options that may be available for you.