Iowa’s annual winter energy assistance moratorium ends in two days. The program runs from November 1st through April 1st and protects Iowans from having electric or natural gas services disconnected during the cold winter months. Those having difficulty paying energy bills should contact their local utility before Wednesday to make payment agreements and avoid disconnection. The Iowa Utilities Board recommends residents work with their local utilities and Community Action Agencies to establish payment agreements.

According to the Iowa Utilities Board, in February there were over 96,000 energy assistance eligible accounts with approximately 36,000 with past due balances, the revenue amounting to $10.8 million dollars.