Energy moratorium begins: We Energies cannot turn off your heat, but energy assistance is available

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Starting this weekend, We Energies cannot turn off your heat -- even if you're behind on your bill.

Each winter, utilities are prohibited from disconnecting customers who are behind on their bill from November 1st – April 15th. Wisconsin law states that heat-providing utility service cannot be disconnected during the heating moratorium period if a customer is connected at the start of the moratorium.

Businesses are not protected from disconnection as part of the moratorium period.

If you've fallen behind on your bill, energy assistance is available through the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP).

The energy assistance is available from October 1st through May 15th.

It is estimated that 227,000 households will receive assistance in paying their heating bills this season.

Eligibility is based on household income, household size, and the home’s heating costs. Residents may be eligible if the gross household income is 60% of the state median income level or less. WHEAP pays benefits directly to fuel suppliers to offset the cost of home heating. Crisis assistance, emergency fuel assistance, and emergency furnace repair and replacement for eligible homeowners may also be offered based on household need.







































Household Size Annual Income
1 $25,151
2 $32,890
3 $40,628
4 $48,367
5 $56,106
6 $63,844
7 $65,295
8 $66,746


For more information on the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) and how to apply, please call 1-866-HEATWIS (432-8947), or visit the “Where to Apply” tab on homeenergyplus.wi.gov to find your local energy assistance agency.

You can also get more information from the SDC and Community Advocates.

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