Bluebonnet Electric to provide $4.2M in capital credits, assistance for members during COVID-19 pandemic

BASTROP, Texas - Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative will be providing $4.2 million in capital credits and assistance for members in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The cooperative's board of directors unanimously approved the move during its April meeting.

“It’s always good to see a credit on your electric bill, but especially now when so many families and businesses are struggling financially because of the coronavirus outbreak,” said board chairman Ben Flencher. “This is a tremendous benefit to our members and a wonderful way to help them and our communities when it is needed the most.”

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Bluebonnet will be returning $4.2 million in capital credits, an increase of $500,000 from last year, to all members beginning in May. Each member will receive a credit on their electric bill for their share.

The board also approved assistance for nonprofits part of Bluebonnet's energy assistance program. More than 24 nonprofits provide financial assistance for members to help pay their electric bills, says the cooperative.

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The approved assistance is part of Bluebonnet's efforts to help members and communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The cooperative is also helping families and businesses by temporarily suspending disconnections for nonpayment; and waiving late fees, deferring payment due dates and making payment arrangements for members in need. The cooperative has also increased support to the 15 service-area food banks providing meals to families who have lost jobs or income due to the coronavirus shut-down.

Bluebonnet members who need assistance with their electric bill, or need to request a payment arrangement, should call member services at 800-842-7708 or visit a drive-through lane at one of the member service centers in Bastrop, Brenham, Giddings, Lockhart or Manor.

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