CenterPoint Energy urges customers to review payment options

Qualified customers encouraged to utilize payment assistance options

Evansville, Ind. – March 12, 2024 – As the winter heating season draws to a close, CenterPoint Energy is reminding customers that the State of Indiana’s winter moratorium ends on March 15. The utility is taking proactive steps to support customers during this time and encourages them to contact us to discuss options.

The Indiana winter moratorium protects customers who have applied for support through income-qualified programs, such as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), from having their heating services interrupted. CenterPoint Energy has implemented a number of programs to provide continued support beyond the moratorium’s end.

“As the winter moratorium comes to an end, we are committed to raising awareness and providing necessary support,” said Ashley Babcock, Vice President of Gas Operations, Indiana and Ohio. “Customers concerned about potential service disconnection or in need of bill payment assistance are encouraged to contact CenterPoint Energy immediately to explore additional support options that are available.”

Available assistance programs include: 

·       Keep Service On: A crisis assistance program, Keep Service On, is available to income-eligible customers — those earning up to 70% state median income — who heat with natural gas. The program can provide up to $200 per customer. It will remain available until funds are depleted. Customers should call 1-800-227-1376 to check eligibility and apply.

·       Special Payment Arrangement: CenterPoint Energy will offer a special payment arrangement to customers who received energy assistance or previously participated in the Fall Turn On or Spring Keep Service On programs. This applies to customers who have previously not followed payment arrangements. A larger down payment is required to establish the payment arrangement, which can be set up from now until the end of June. The balance may be extended through September 2024. Customers should call 1-800-227-1376 to set up the arrangement.

Additional payment assistance options offered by CenterPoint Energy and other agencies include:

·       Standard Payment Arrangement: Customers who are having difficulty paying bills in full can request a payment arrangement to fulfill the obligation in smaller increments over a set period of time. Eligible customers can request a payment arrangement by calling 1-800-227-1376.

·       Energy Assistance Program (EAP): Contact the local Indiana Community Action Agency, which administers EAP for income-eligible customers and can provide intake information about the application process and program requirements. EAP is available to Indiana customers with CenterPoint Energy natural gas service and/or electric service.

·       Universal Service Program (USP): A program for Indiana natural gas customers, the USP provides a monthly discount on residential gas charges during the heating season. By enrolling in EAP, customers are automatically enrolled in USP. The monthly discount of 15 to 32 percent applies from December through May 31.

·       Energy Efficiency Resources: CenterPoint Energy has a wide offering of energy efficiency programs for customers, which can be found at CenterPointEnergy.com/SmartSavings. Customers are also encouraged to apply for all residential (home ownership or rental) weatherization programs, including programs available through the local service provider. These programs assist with reducing energy use in the home, which can help lower the bill.

For additional information on available resources, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/IndianaBilling.