RI Energy Extends Shutoff Protection. Payment Holds for Federal Workers, Govt Contractors, Military

PUC approves plan offering no-interest payment holds and an early start to the state’s winter moratorium.

Rhode Island Energy has granted House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi’s request to shield Rhode Islanders affected by the ongoing federal government shutdown from utility shutoffs and penalties.

Under a proposal approved Monday by the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission, Rhode Island Energy will place a payment hold on accounts belonging to federal employees, government contractors, and active-duty military personnel directly impacted by the shutdown. These customers will not face service termination, late fees, or interest while the federal shutdown continues.

“I want to thank Rhode Island Energy for so swiftly launching a program to provide relief for Rhode Island’s federal civil servants who are going without a paycheck while the federal shutdown continues,” said Speaker Shekarchi (D-Warwick). “Thanks to the swift response from Rhode Island Energy and the Public Utilities Commission, the hardship being felt by these families will not be compounded by the fear of losing access to basic services like heat and electricity.”

In a formal letter to the PUC, Rhode Island Energy President Greg Cornett confirmed that the company would also extend the winter moratorium on service terminations for all Rhode Island residential customers starting Monday, October 27, 2025. The moratorium, normally beginning later in the season, protects households from shutoffs of gas and electric service during colder months.

Eligible customers can contact Rhode Island Energy at 855-743-1101 for information on completing a self-attestation form and to explore low-income discount rates, payment plans, and other assistance programs.

Cornett emphasized that Rhode Island Energy remains “committed to helping all customers navigate financial challenges” and encouraged anyone struggling with payments — even those not directly affected by the shutdown — to reach out to discuss available options.

Here is the letter sent from Rhode Island Energy to the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission:

The Public Utilities Commission met on Monday to discuss and vote on Rhode Island Energy’s proposal, and it was approved, effective immediately. Affected workers will be able to call Rhode Island Energy at 855-743-1101 for instructions on how to apply.