NewsLocal NewsWestern Montana News

Actions

NorthWestern Energy asks public to give crews safe space

Posted at 7:24 PM, Mar 26, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-27 16:14:19-04

NorthWestern Energy reports that they are prepared to continue providing safe energy services throughout the COVID-19 crisis.

A pandemic plan is currently being executed which includes protocols to ensure the health of their employees.

NorthWestern Energy has asked the public to give these employees six feet of space or more for social distancing, as they will do the same for their customers.

“This is a difficult change from our typical practice, we are members of the communities where we work and we want to help our neighbors,” said NorthWestern Energy Vice President Customer Care, Communications and Human Resources Bobbi Schroeppel. “But right now, that means keeping a safe distance from others.”

In order to maintain social distancing NorthWestern Energy crews will not enter customer's property, except under very limited circumstances.

Customers are asked to contact heating, ventilation and air conditioning service professionals to relight pilot lights and check the operating condition of their heating and cooling systems and water heaters.

Crews will still respond to carbon monoxide concerns, complete new service connections and incidents when service lines are damaged and ensure that NorthWestern Energy’s systems are operating safely.

The company is temporarily suspending most disconnections and late fees for households and small businesses facing hardship because of the pandemic.

NorthWestern Energy is encouraging customers to contact them if they are concerned about the ability to pay their bill to set up payment arrangements, so they are not faced with large balances later this year.

Those that have questions about their service or bills can call 888-467-2669 or 800-245-6977.