We know the coronavirus outbreak may cause financial hardships. Some consumers may face reduced employment or unemployment. Some are staying home, which makes 24-hour utility service even more vital.

Governor Henry McMaster has requested all regulated utilities and cooperatives cease suspension and disconnection of essential services for nonpayment during the current State of Emergency.

As a consumer, it is important for you to know that you still have an obligation to pay your bill eventually. So, we urge you to keep paying on time if possible to avoid letting your balance due get out of hand.

Based on the policies of the particular utility, late payment penalties, interest on overdue balances, and reconnect fees still apply.

The ORS commends the utilities that are complying and, in many cases, going beyond the Governor’s request in helping customers navigate through these difficult times.

For more information on what the utilities are doing to help you cope with this crisis, please visit ORS.SC.GOV/covid19.