Kenergy members who are past-due are eligible for disconnections, but the public utility is creating payment plans for those who fell behind during the pandemic.
Like Owensboro Municipal Utilities, Kenergy followed the order from Gov. Andy Beshear to postpone disconnections for past-due members for several months.
Kenergy spokesperson Leslie Barr said they made social media and website posts about staying up-to-date on bills throughout the pandemic, and for members to call if they were struggling to pay.
The Kentucky Public Service Commission said disconnects could resume on Oct. 20. Barr said the number of Kenergy members eligible for disconnection on that date was 3,824.
Barr said Kenergy called members and sent letters alerting them that their accounts were past due and discussed payment plans if they couldn’t pay in full.
“We’ve told members that we would work with them to set up payment arrangements that would fit their budget and personal circumstances because each situation is different,” Barr said. “… I have tried to tell people, ‘If you are struggling, call us. We don’t know what’s going on [with your employment situation or if COVID-19 has caused financial issues] if you don’t tell us.”
Those who are past-due can call 800-844-4832 and talk to a customer service representative to avoid being subject to disconnection.
Members can also reach out to their local LIHEAP agency to submit an application for assistance in paying their bills. Daviess County’s LIHEAP office can be reached at 270-686-1662.
Additionally, the Healthy at Home Utility Relief Fund is taking applications through Dec. 11.
More information on LIHEAPE and the Relief Fund can be found here at www.capky.org/covid-19-resources/.
“Kenergy knows it has been a very tough time for those that we serve,” Barr said. “We want our members to know that we will work with them to get them caught back up and that there are additional resources available to help them if they need it.”
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