CULLMAN, Ala. – As temperatures drop across the region, the Cullman Power Board (CPB) and Cullman Electric Cooperative (Cullman EC) are providing essential information for customers and members facing financial hardships or power disruptions.
CPB
Utilities Board of the City of Cullman CEO Allison Bright emphasized the importance of open communication and proactive measures to assist residents during challenging times.
“If a customer is facing a hardship or emergency situation, it is best to call and talk to our customer service representatives to discuss options available,” Bright said. Customers can reach the Utilities Board at 256-734-2434 for assistance.
The CPB follows strict guidelines to ensure that residents remain safe during extreme temperatures. Bright outlined the protocol:
- No disconnections in extreme conditions: Power will not be disconnected during freezing conditions (32°F or below) or during heatwaves with temperatures of 100°F or higher
- Automatic reconnections: If a customer’s power has already been disconnected due to non-payment, it will automatically be reconnected without penalties or fees during extreme weather conditions – this applies during and after business hours
- Advance action for weather forecasts: If extreme temperatures are forecasted outside business hours, power is restored by the end of the business day and remains on throughout the weather event
The Utilities Board, in partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), offers guidance for staying warm while saving money during the winter months. Resources and energy-saving tips can be found at www.tva.com/energy/stay-warm-save-money.
Reducing power usage not only saves money for customers, but also eases the demand on the power grid during peak weather conditions. While extreme temperatures alone do not cause outages, the combination of increased demand and available power generation can contribute to service disruptions.
The Utilities Board has introduced a new online outage map to help residents monitor power disruptions in their area. If power is lost, customers can check the map at www.cullmanpowerboard.com/outage-map.
For reconnections during non-business hours, CPB customers who have made a payment can call 256-734-2434 and follow the prompts to notify the Utilities Board. Service will be restored promptly after notification.
Cullman EC
Cullman EC Vice President of Member Engagement and Communications Brian Lacy emphasized the importance of communication and proactive steps for members facing financial difficulties.
“If someone needs assistance, please call or meet with one of our member service representatives,” Lacy said. “They can explain the options available and will work to help find a solution.”
Cullman EC encourages members who are behind on payments to consider switching to its smartPAY program, a prepaid billing option. This program moves any past-due balances into debt recovery, where 25% of future payments are applied to the outstanding amount. Members can purchase electricity as needed and make payments anytime online, by phone or in person.
“If the account runs low, members receive an email alert letting them know it’s time to recharge their account,” Lacy explained. “A payment bringing the balance back to $10 will restore power within 30 minutes without a reconnection fee.”
With Alabama law mandating that utilities suspend disconnections during freezing temperatures, Cullman EC follows suit by postponing cutoffs during extended sub-freezing periods. However, Lacy stressed the importance of contacting the cooperative to discuss options before temperatures rise and normal billing and collection processes resume.
For those needing additional assistance, several local organizations provide aid, including Community Action of North Alabama and the Committee on Church Cooperation. More information is available on Cullman EC’s website at https://cullmanec.com/hug-utility-bill-assistance-organizations.
To help reduce energy bills without sacrificing comfort, Lacy offered practical tips:
- Adjust the thermostat: Keep the thermostat set to 68°F or lower and reduce it further when sleeping or away
- Seal air leaks: Caulking and weather stripping around windows and doors can prevent drafts; a towel can block leaks at the bases of doors temporarily
- Use natural heat: Open window coverings during the day to let sunlight in, and close them at night to retain warmth
- Bundle up: Warm clothing and blankets can make a big difference
Lacy also reminded members about space heater safety:
- Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets, avoiding extension cords
- Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from flammable items
- Consider models with automatic shut-off features
More energy-saving strategies are available on Cullman EC’s website at www.cullmanec.com/winter-energy-savings-and-conservation-tips.
“With freezing weather here, it’s crucial to stay informed and prepared,” Lacy said. “We’re here to support our members in any way we can.”
By staying informed and utilizing available resources, Cullman residents can better navigate the challenges of winter weather while ensuring their homes remain safe and warm.
