Ameren Missouri expands program to help natural gas customers with overdue balances
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Struggling natural gas customers with Ameren Missouri will now have access to new funding through Ameren Missouri’s Clean Slate program that will help pay off past-due balances.
The funding will help local families after a winter season with significantly higher wholesale natural gas prices, which has led to higher energy statements for some customers.
The utility company increased natural gas rates in December by $5 million overall to pay for operation and maintenance costs. That rate hike is on top of one implemented in the fall to pay for the increase in gas costs. That hike increased gas rates by about 67%.
“This winter we’ve had an influx of clients who have never needed energy assistance before and expanding the Clean Slate program will answer a critical need in our community,” said Keri McCrorey, executive director of East Missouri Action Agency, Inc. (EMAA), a community action agency serving southeast Missouri in a release. “Although the weather may be warming up, some families are still paying off their heating bills, and this support from Ameren Missouri will offer the relief they need to avoid a crisis.”
Ameren Missouri expanded Clean Slate's eligibility requirements to support more Missouri families. With just 10% of the past-due balance paid, the Clean Slate program will cover the remaining overdue balance.
- To be eligible for Clean Slate, customers must meet the following requirements:
- Household income up to 300% of the federal poverty level.
- For example, customers in a four-person household making up to $79,500 annually are eligible to apply.
- Pay 10% of the past-due balance.
- Experiencing financial hardship.
- Have an active Ameren Missouri natural gas account that is past due on a payment agreement or in need of reconnection.
