Weather Restrictions


The weather restriction is short-term. 

There is no such thing as a moratorium on shut-offs.

Gas/Electric utilities cannot shut off your service during extreme weather if certain temperature conditions are met. These protections are meant to keep people safe during very hot or very cold weather.


Hot weather shut-off protections: If the forecast at 6AM predicts temperatures of 95°F or higher, or a heat index of 95°F or higher (sustained) in the next 72 hours, then your service cannot be shut off that day. The utility must check the weather forecast daily and update its decision based on current conditions.

For gas service, the hot weather rule only applies if your gas is used for cooling (air conditioning) AND you have informed the utility about this use.

 

Cold weather shut-off protections: These protections are in place from November 1 to March 31. If the forecast at 6AM shows temperatures (sustained) of 32°F or lower in the next 72 hours, then your service cannot be shut off that day. The temperature must stay at 32°F or below for the entire 24-hour segment. The utility must check the weather forecast daily and update its decision based on current conditions.

 

If the utility wants to disconnect a customer during extreme winter weather. The utility must file an affidavit with the Public Service Commission. The filing must:

  • Be at least 24 hours before shut-off

  • Certify that shut-off will not pose a threat to life or health of occupants

  • State whether a customer claims an occupant is an older adult, has a disability, is seriously ill or dependent upon life support equipment