MADISON – With excessive heat settling in over much of Wisconsin, and the National Weather Service issuing heat advisories and excessive heat warnings, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) encourages customers to stay safe by staying cool.
Wisconsin law prevents a utility from disconnecting electrical service from occupied dwelling units when a heat advisory, heat warning, or heat emergency issued by the National Weather Service is in effect. Additionally, a utility is required to make reasonable attempts to reconnect service to an occupied dwelling that has been disconnected for nonpayment when an occupant states that there is a potential threat to health or life that results from the combination of the heat and loss of service. The utility may require that an occupant produce a licensed physician’s statement or notice from a public health, social service, or law enforcement official which identifies the medical emergency for the occupant. Utilities are encouraged to err on the side of human health and safety when making these reconnection decisions.
Upon expiration of the heat advisory, heat warning, or heat emergency, the utility may disconnect service to a property that was reconnected during this period without further notice if an appropriate payment arrangement has not been established.
Consumers can take simple steps that help keep temperatures lower and save energy:
- Keep blinds and curtains closed
- Unplug electronics like computers, televisions and radios when not in use
- Make sure air conditioner is clean and maintained by checking your air filters, air intakes, radiators, etc.
- Wash clothes or dishes early in the morning or late at night
- Turn off lights when leaving a room
Consumers who have questions about disconnections during periods of extreme temperatures should contact the Public Service Commission Consumer Affairs Bureau at 1-800-225-7729.
