So... what does this mean?

• If you sign up for service with Energy Ogre, essentially every aspect of our process will be the same. We will still fill in all the missing pieces and ensure that when you flip the switch, the s turn on, and you pay the least amount possible for it.
• If you call us, we'll answer. Unless we are away or don't want to. We're ogres, after all.
• If you run into any issues with your electricity or the billing for your electricity, we'll be here to help you through it.

In other words, not much has changed. We're here to help you, and we'll get through this together. Besides, handshakes were ogrerated anyway.

The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) agreed to extend the Electricity Relief Program (ERP) enrollment window to August 31, 2020. Subsequently, the ERP program has been extended until Sept. 30, 2020, so late enrollees have an opportunity to benefit from the program. The ERP protects unemployed Texans unable to pay their bills from disconnection during this period. This extension only affects Texans who qualified, applied, and were accepted into the ERP. PUCT Chair DeAnn T. Walker believes this order may be the final extension of the program.

Some additional reading:

Electricity Shut off Moratorium Extended : Please review page 3 for specifics on agenda item number 21

The Texas PUC Commissioners agreed to extend the Electricity Relief Program (ERP) until August 31, 2020 Per prior PUC order, the Electricity Relief Program (ERP) is scheduled to end on July 17. However, owing to an increase in COVID cases in Texas, the extension will be extended to be in place till Aug 31. This means that REPs cannot disconnect customers for non-payment during this period. This extension only affects Texans who qualified, applied, and were accepted into the ERP.

Some additional reading:

Texas PUC Commissioners Will Extend Electricity Relief Program Beyond July

How to Apply for PUC’s COVID-19 Emergency Relief Program

The pandemic doesn't stop hurricane season. Residents of the Texas Gulf Coast should create a plan, build a hurricane preparedness kit, and stay informed of all weather-related developments. Your family's emergency plan should include evacuation plans, how to protect your home, etc. Use this hurricane preparedness guide and checklist to ensure your family has a safe hurricane season.The hurricane season runs June 1 – November 30.

Hurricane Preparedness and Evacuation Information Brochure courtesy of Harris County Emergency Management Department (PDF)

There are several great resources for small businesses, especially in regards to the new legislation and relief available during this crisis. Local chambers and other city organizations also have helpful resources. We encourage you to seek assistance in understanding new requirements and your options, if necessary. As always, we are also here to help our commercial members in any way we can.

Some additional reading from our blog:

A Helpful Guide for Small Businesses

Electricity usage is shifting as schools and businesses close and more people work remotely. The shift makes it difficult for grid operators to predict demand and could increase volatility in the market. Energy Ogre members are in fixed-rate plans and will not be subjected to this volatility. In the end, however, if you are home during this crisis, your usage will increase and therefore you can expect higher than normal electricity bills. We will continue to monitor the market and ensure you are still in the lowest rate possible.

Some additional reading from our blog:

Hidden Costs of Being Home During COVID-19

How Will the Coronavirus Affect My Electricity Bill?

In accordance with your contract, your provider will continue to bill you for your electricity service and you are responsible for those bills. If you are having difficulties paying your bill during this time, please contact us so that we may assist you in setting up a deferred payment plan with your provider. All providers are required to offer payment arrangements to customers who request them.

During this state of disaster, the Texas Public Utility Commission will ban utility companies from disconnecting power services for qualifying residential customers for at least the next six months. It's important to note, those in need will have to apply for the program and show proof of hardship due to the current crisis to be added to the list. If you aren't on this list, your provider can disconnect your service for lack of payment. See the PUC’s Response to CVOID-19 FAQ for more information.

Some good news today among the gloom and doom! During this emergency, the Public Utility Commission has issued an order suspending disconnections for customers who are unable to pay their bills due to the current situation. The order provides a safety net for the electricity providers, by easing deadlines on payments they must make to the utilities on behalf of their customers, so they can support payment plans for residential customers. When the moratorium is lifted, customers that haven't already made payment arrangements will receive disconnection notices.

If you are having difficulty paying your electricity bills and need our assistance to work with your provider, we are here for you as always.