Old Dominion News

Dominion Energy has agreed to suspend power shutoffs due to nonpayment and will work with customers to reconnect power previously shut off for nonpayment, according to a company press release.

“People rely on us to meet critical needs, and they should not have to worry about losing service during this critical time. We have suspended all service disconnections as individuals, families, businesses and communities pull together to meet our collective needs,” says the energy company. “We know the communities we serve rely on us to provide an essential service. We remain committed to providing reliable energy service 24-7.”

Dominion reminds customers to continue paying their bills during this situation, although they ask that those who pay bills in person use other methods, such as online payments, pay by mail, credit or debit payments by phone, or automatic bank draft payments.   

Individuals facing financial trouble due to the shutdown can contact the company to discuss short-term payment extensions and long-term payment options. Dominion Energy does offer energy assistance programs to assist customers who are under severe financial strain.

Employees will continue to respond to emergencies during the crisis.

As another way to help the communities they serve, Dominion Energy will also donate $1 million to coronavirus relief efforts. The grant program is open to all West Virginia organizations that provide direct services to those impacted by the coronavirus situation.  

The company is evaluating grant applications as they come and will announce decisions to applicants by April 15.

For more information, contact the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, or visit https://www.dominionenergy.com/company/community/dominion-energy-charitable-foundation/coronavirus-relief#

The Empowerment Alliance, a natural gas lobbying organization, issued the following statement in support of Dominion's actions:

 “As many Americans have seen their work hours reduced or have been laid off, many will be unable to pay for basic energy services,” said Ian Prior, spokesperson for The Empowerment Alliance. “Fortunately, utility companies around the country are doing the right thing and suspending customer shut offs and resuming service. It’s the kind of patriotic response this country needs, and The Empowerment Alliance applauds their efforts and encourages all others that can to follow suit.”