Portland, OR. — Portland General Electric (PGE) announced temporary protections to help customers affected by the ongoing federal government shutdown and delays in assistance programs. Through December 31, PGE will suspend service disconnections for customers enrolled in its Income-Qualified Bill Discount and medical certificate programs.
“PGE understands that some customers are facing difficult decisions,” said Allison Rowden, PGE director of customer service. “We are here for our customers through bill assistance programs and options that can help with your specific situation. We’re just a phone call away.”
These temporary protections supplement PGE’s regular winter safeguards, which prohibit residential disconnections during extreme weather. Together, the measures aim to preserve reliable service for households facing financial strain. Approximately 19,000 homes across PGE’s service area have lost access to the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) amid the shutdown.
PGE confirmed that its Income-Qualified Bill Discount Program remains unaffected, allowing existing participants to continue receiving their discounts. Residents with household incomes at or below 60% of Oregon’s median family income can still apply online at portlandgeneral.com/iqbd or by calling 503-228-6322 for assistance in more than 200 languages.
PGE also offers additional support, including payment plans, extended due dates, and referrals to community resources. More details are available at Oregon Energy Assistance Programs, LIHEAP & More | PGE.
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