WE Energies winter moratorium ends, those in need encouraged to sign up for energy assistance

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – Thousands of utility customers who have fallen behind on their energy bills could have their heat turned off.

The WE Energies winter moratorium prevents utility cut-offs from November until April 15.

Now that it’s over, customers who haven’t paid their bills need to set up a payment plan sign up for energy assistance or risk being disconnected.

In Milwaukee County, the health department will have extended hours now through May 15 so people can apply for energy assistance. 

Extended hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday from 7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Wednesday and Friday 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.; and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. Eligible residents can schedule appointments to apply for Energy Assistance prior to May 15, 2018 to receive a benefit. They can call 414-270-4-MKE, or go online to www.energyassistancemke.org. There are also flexible walk-in options at six service locations:

• Northwest - 4906 W Fond du Lac Avenue North - 6918 W Brown Deer Road
• Downtown - 728 N James Lovell Street (7th and Wisconsin)
• West Allis - 6761 W Greenfield Ave
• Southeast - 2701 S Chase Ave (between Lincoln and Oklahoma)
• South - 5663 S 27th Street

For eligible residents who plan to apply for benefits on May 3 at the Energy Assistance location at 5663 S 27th Street between 3 and 5 p.m., they’ll receive a free coupon book for Wisconsin Dells with hundreds more in savings from 103.7 KISS FM.

For more information on eligibility or to schedule an appointment, visit www.energyassistancemke.org.