Alliant can help pay energy bills

Alliant Energy can help eligible customers in its western Shawano County service area pay their energy bills under its Hometown Care Energy Fund.

The fund is separate from state or federal assistance. In addition to energy assistance, Alliant Energy has several options to help customers manage their bills. The company’s My Account site allows customers to set up a flexible payment plan based on their ability to pay, track their energy usage and make fee-free credit card payments. Customers may also request a payment extension or set up a recurring payment for a fixed amount to be automatically withdrawn each week or month.

“If you need assistance, you are not alone. We encourage customers who are struggling to take advantage of available resources to stay on track,” said Linda Mattes, vice president of Customer and IT Operations at Alliant Energy. “We are being flexible and are here to help customers during this difficult time.”

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, one in three households has struggled to pay regular expenses, including utility bills, since the start of the pandemic and about one in six U.S. workers has filed for unemployment.

Customers needing assistance can call 211 or visit alliantenergy.com/energyassistance for details about available options.

They can review Hometown Care Energy Fund income eligibility requirements and apply for funding at Energy Services, Inc.

Alliant Energy share owners, as well as voluntary contributions from employees, retirees and customers, support The Hometown Care Energy Fund. In April, Alliant Energy announced a $2 million donation to the fund. The contributions by share owners are not included in the rates charged to customers.

“We invite customers to join us in supporting the Hometown Care Energy Fund to help neighbors in need,” said Mattes.

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program is a federally funded financial assistance program to help pay for energy costs. To check income eligibility and learn how to apply, go to homeenergyplus.wi.gov.

If customers would like to donate to help Shawano County residents by giving to the Hometown Care Energy Fund, call 1-800-ALLIANT to add an amount their monthly bill. Customers can also mail a check to Hometown Care Energy Fund, Alliant Energy, P.O. Box 3003, Cedar Rapids, IA 52406-3003.

alliantenergy.com/energyassistance