Shutoffs for low-income customers and seniors with past-due bills halt through April 5. (Photo: DTE Energy)
DTE and Consumers Energy are temporarily halting nonpayment shutoffs for low-income customers and seniors as the number of known coronavirus cases in Michigan ticks up to 33.
On Saturday, DTE announced those customers would avoid shutoff for nonpayment through at least April 5, a date that could be extended depending on the trajectory of the outbreak. Customers already in the utility's Senior Winter Protection Program have had their end dates automatically extended through May 3.
Consumers made a similar announcement earlier this week. According to the Energy and Policy Institute, the company will suspend shutoffs for low-income customers and seniors starting Monday and ending April 5. Seniors in its Winter Protection Program have their dates extended through April 30.
DTE says its payment assistance program may be available for customers who contract coronavirus or lose their income as a result of the outbreak. Customers can call (800) 477-4747 to determine eligibility. Details on Consumers' payment assistance program are here.
