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NEWPORT — Public Utility District No. 1 of Pend Oreille County is now offering a PrePay Billing Program, giving customers a flexible way to manage their electric bills by paying ahead and tracking energy use daily. Designed to work much like filling up a gas tank, the voluntary PrePay program allows customers to “pay-as-you-go” for their power and add money to their electric account in advance.
Balances are updated daily, helping customers monitor usage closely, avoid surprise bills and better manage household budgets. There are no additional program fees, and PrePay customers pay the same electric rates as others in their rate class.
“Prepaid electricity service is a real option for budget-conscious customers who want more visibility and control over their energy use,” said Sarah Holderman, PUD customer services director. “For many, it’s a simple way to make life a little less hectic.”
PrePay customers do not receive monthly bills, late fees or past-due notices. Instead, they can monitor daily usage and balances through SmartHub, the PUD’s online and mobile account platform. Low-balance alerts can be sent via phone, text or email so customers can add funds and avoid service interruptions.
The program is available to customers with advanced meters that can be remotely disconnected and reconnected. Customers are encouraged to enroll in SmartHub to participate. Payments can be made anytime through the SmartHub app or website, by phone, at the payment kiosk at Box Canyon Dam Visitor’s Center or in person at the PUD office.
PrePay billing programs are widely used across the utility industry, including by a majority of public utility districts in Washington state.
“People are often surprised how much more aware they become about their energy use using this program,” said Holderman. “When you can see it every day, it naturally changes how and when you use electricity.”
Customers interested in learning more or signing up are encouraged to contact Pend Oreille PUD during regular business hours or visit www. popud.org.
