Rhode Island Energy is the primary utility provider for electricity and natural gas services in Rhode Island. It serves residential, commercial, and industrial customers across the state. Here’s an overview of how billing works for Rhode Island Energy:
Billing Components
- Supply Charges: This covers the cost of generating electricity or procuring natural gas. Customers can choose to get their energy supply from Rhode Island Energy or from a third-party supplier. If they choose a third-party supplier, this portion of the bill is passed through based on the contracted rate with that supplier.
- Delivery Charges: These charges cover the cost of delivering electricity or natural gas to homes and businesses. This includes maintaining and operating the transmission and distribution systems, like power lines, poles, and gas pipelines.
- Customer Charge: A fixed monthly fee that covers the cost of providing customer service, billing, and maintaining accounts, regardless of energy usage.
- Distribution Charge: This charge is based on energy usage and covers the cost of operating and maintaining the local distribution system.
- Other Charges and Adjustments: This may include state-mandated charges like energy efficiency program fees, renewable energy charges, and other surcharges or credits.
Billing Cycle
- Monthly Billing: Customers receive a bill once a month based on their energy consumption, which is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) for electricity and therms or cubic feet for natural gas.
- Estimated vs. Actual Readings: Bills are typically based on actual meter readings. However, if a meter reading cannot be obtained, the bill may be based on an estimated reading, which will be adjusted once an actual reading is available.
Payment Options
- Online: Customers can pay their bills online through the Rhode Island Energy website or mobile app.
- Automatic Payments: Enroll in auto-pay to have the bill amount automatically deducted from a bank account or credit card.
- By Mail: Payments can be sent by mail using the payment stub and envelope provided with the bill.
- In Person: Payment can be made in person at authorized payment centers or customer service locations.
Budget Billing
Rhode Island Energy offers a budget billing program, which averages energy costs over a 12-month period to provide a consistent monthly payment amount. This can help customers manage their budgets by avoiding high bills during peak energy use months.
Assistance Programs
- Payment Plans: Rhode Island Energy offers payment plans for customers facing financial difficulties, allowing them to spread their payments over a longer period.
- Assistance Programs: There are various assistance programs available, such as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which provides help to qualifying low-income households with their energy bills.
Understanding Your Bill
The bill includes detailed information, such as:
- Account number
- Billing period
- Previous balance and payments
- Current charges broken down by supply, delivery, and other fees
- Energy usage history
- Due date and payment options
Rate Changes
Rates can change based on factors like changes in the cost of energy supply, adjustments approved by the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission, or updates in state-mandated charges.
Contact Information
For any billing questions, issues, or to set up payment arrangements, customers can contact Rhode Island Energy's customer service through their website, by phone, or in person at a customer service office.
Understanding your bill and staying informed about your usage and payment options can help manage your energy costs effectively. For the most up-to-date information, it’s recommended to check Rhode Island Energy’s official website or contact their customer service directly.