AUSTIN, Texas — As scorching summer temperatures continue across Texas, the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) is reminding residents about consumer protections designed to help keep electricity service connected during periods of extreme heat. State officials say the protections are intended to support households facing financial hardship while ensuring Texans have access to essential electric service during dangerous weather conditions.
The commission said existing regulations prevent electric service disconnections for non-payment during qualifying extreme weather emergencies, including periods of excessive heat. Officials are also encouraging customers who are struggling with rising electricity bills to explore available payment assistance and flexible billing options before their accounts become delinquent.
“It’s hard to stay cool in the Texas summer heat, and that’s especially true for Texans facing financial challenges,” said PUCT Executive Director Connie Corona. “Our rules help ensure Texans have the power they need to stay safe during extreme summer heat while they work to pay their electric bills without risking disconnection.”
State Rules Protect Customers During Extreme Weather
According to the PUCT, retail electric providers are prohibited from disconnecting electricity service for non-payment during officially recognized extreme weather emergencies. The rule is intended to help protect residents from the health and safety risks associated with prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures.
In addition to preventing disconnections during these emergencies, retail electric providers are required to offer deferred payment plans for electricity bills that become due while an extreme weather emergency is in effect. These payment arrangements allow eligible customers additional time to pay their bills without immediately losing electric service.
The commission noted that its definition of an extreme weather emergency follows National Weather Service advisory criteria outlined in Chapter 25, Sections 25.29(i) and 25.483 of its regulations.
Consumers Encouraged to Seek Assistance Early
PUCT officials are urging customers experiencing financial difficulties because of higher-than-normal energy costs to contact their retail electric provider as soon as possible to discuss available assistance programs and payment options.
The commission said many providers offer payment plans and other forms of financial relief that may help customers manage increased utility expenses during the summer months.
Texans can also contact 2-1-1 to learn about local assistance programs that may provide support with utility bills and other essential household needs.
Additional Protections for Medically Vulnerable Residents
The commission also provides additional protections for consumers who are ill or disabled and have documented that a loss of electricity service would cause illness or worsen an existing medical condition.
These safeguards are intended to ensure that medically vulnerable Texans continue to have access to essential electric service, particularly during periods of extreme weather when electricity may be critical to maintaining health and safety.
Consumer Protection Division Available to Help Resolve Disputes
PUCT said consumers who encounter problems with their utility service should first attempt to resolve the issue directly with their retail electric provider. If the matter cannot be settled, customers can seek assistance through the commission’s Consumer Protection Division, which helps investigate complaints and facilitate resolutions involving utility services.
As Texas continues to face intense summer heat, state regulators say understanding available consumer protections and seeking assistance early can help residents maintain reliable electric service while managing higher seasonal energy costs.
