Notice to Residential Customers

Special Protections Against Termination of Service

Your electric service will not be terminated if you qualify for a *financial hardship (see below) AND one of the following circumstances exists:

1)    Anyone living in your house has a “certified” serious illness.  A registered physician, nurse practitioner, physician  assistant or local board of health must certify in writing that a serious or chronic illness exists. The letter must be submitted within 7 days of your claim of illness and must be renewed quarterly or in the case of chronic illness, every six months.

2)    A child under 12 months of age resides in your household.  A birth certificate must be provided within 7 days of the claim.

3)    It is between November 15 and March15 and your electricity provides heat or operates the heating system.

4)    You verify that all members of your household are 65 years of age or older.

However, you MUST NOTIFY US and you are still responsible for the bill – we expect reasonable payment arrangements to be made.

You may make payment arrangements and request a financial hardship form by calling our office at 978-448-1150.

If you are claiming “Financial Hardship” under Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 164, section 124A or 124F, please complete a Financial Hardship Statement with GELD within 3 days.

*Financial hardship is defined as income up to 200% of the poverty level.  Your income must be at or below the maximum income set by the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

In order for Groton Electric to verify eligibility, you are required to apply for fuel assistance through the Town Clerk’s office or the Council on Aging within 7 days of your claim.

If you have questions regarding your rights, you may contact the Department of Public Utilities, 1 South Station, Boston, MA 02110 Phone: 617-737-2836 or 1-877-886-5066.