We told you HERE in April that the OUC’s Board of Commissioners had approved a $12.1 million customer relief package in response to the pandemic. It included $2.6 million for Project CARE, a program that provides emergency assistance to residential customers in danger of losing their utility service.

OUC – The Reliable One is offering immediate electric and water bill relief to residential customers who are eligible for Project CARE and has provided nearly 24,000 customers with aid through payment arrangements and financial assistance through Project CARE since April, and there is nearly $1.5 million still remaining in the fund.

Administered by the Heart of Florida United Way, Project CARE offers households in danger of losing utility service up to $500 during a one-year period. Customers can determine their eligibility three ways:

  • Visit HFUW.org/211 and fill out online form
  • Dial 2-1-1 to speak with a representative 

In addition to Project CARE, OUC offers several payment options, including OUC Power Pass (a pay-as-you-go option for customers). The utility will waive the first month’s customer charge for new Power Pass enrollees and apply existing deposits to outstanding balances. Payment arrangements have been extended up to 12 months in some cases. For more information on assistance options, visit www.ouc.com/assistance

The $12.1 million relief package approved in April also included $7.5 million to lower electric fuel rates for May bills; $1.5 million for utility bill-payment assistance to qualified small businesses; and $500,000 toward the first month’s customer charge for new OUC Power Pass customers.

Brendan O'Connor

Editor in Chief of Bungalower.com

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