Local Utilities Respond to COVID-19 Pandemic

Jackson Purchase Energy announced they will be closing their lobby to the public beginning Monday. Staff say visitors are being asked to reschedule, and aren't being allowed into the building. All payments and new services are to be handled either electronically, through the drive-through, night deposit, or through the mail.

Paducah Water has also announced the temporary closure of their offices. In a press release, they say their office will be closing beginning Monday at 4 pm, until further notice. Staff will still be in the office during normal business hours to provide customer support by phone. 

Paducah Power System is also limiting contact with customers by closing their lobby at 4:30 pm Monday. Their drive-through window will remain open. General Manager Dave Carroll said almost any business can be conducted with PPS using the telephone or internet. The utility has also announced they will not be disconnecting anyone's residential or commercial service, effective immediately, since some customers may have their budgets affected by the outbreak. 

West Kentucky Rural Electric says that while they are keeping their offices open to the public, they are encouraging members to avoid entering the office if at all possible. In their announcement, they note that they are happy to answer questions, set up new service, arrange for disconnects, and more by phone at 1-800-495-7322. They also have drive-through service at their Mayfield and Murray offices, as well as drop boxes at all three locations. Payments can also be made on their website.

Atmos Energy announced Saturday they have temporarily suspended natural gas disconnections, knowing that some customers may experience financial difficulty due to illness, quarantine or a disruption at work. 

Kentucky Utilities Company has announced an attempt to assist customers who may be dealing with financial difficulties due to the impact of COVID-19. Until May 1, disconnects for residential customers are suspended, and late fees incurred during this time will be waived. Offices will remain open at in operation at this time, although they also encourage their customers to use their website, phone, or mail payment options. 

Mayfield Electric & Water Systems has announced that they are also suspending all disconnects for nonpayment until further notice, citing the financial strain the COVID-19 pandemic has placed on families. They encourage members that can make a payment to do so by mail, website, night deposit box, or their drive-through.

This story will be updated as we receive additional information.