The Maui News

Hawaiian Electric has suspended service disconnections for both Maui residential and commercial customers through at least Oct. 17 under a state Public Utilities Commission order following the devastating Aug. 8 wildfires.

Any threat of immediate disconnection unless payment is made during this time should be treated as a scam, Hawaiian Electric said Tuesday. The special assistance period may be extended depending on future circumstances.

Even with the moratorium on disconnections, customers facing financial hardship are urged to call Hawaiian Electric at (808) 871-9777 so payment options and schedules can be arranged to help keep payments manageable, the company said. While customers will still be responsible for paying their electric bills, Hawaiian Electric will work with Maui customers to find the best options to suit their individual needs, the company said.

“As we continue to support our Maui communities to recover and rebuild, and with the impacts to the Maui economy just starting to be known during these challenging times, we want to help ease the worry and ensure this essential service is not interrupted for those who are struggling financially,” said Brendan Bailey, vice president of customer service for Hawaiian Electric. “We are here to help and we encourage those who need assistance to please contact us and let us know about their situation.”

For a list of plans and to submit a payment request form, visit www.hawaiian

electric.com/paymentarran gement. Completing the form is the quickest way to get the process started. Late fees and interest charges are waived while on a payment plan.

Special payment arrangement options listed online are not the only choices available, Hawaiian Electric said. Company representatives can work with customers to tailor a plan to individual budgets.

For information on tips and rebates to help offset the costs of energy-saving equipment and services, visit hawaiienergy.com/tips.