JCP&L

In addition to high temperatures, New Jersey residents have also been hit with electric rate hikes that went into effect at an unfortunate time.

JCP&L has sent out more than 40,000 disconnection notices since the end of the shutoff moratorium that was prompted by the coronavirus pandemic.

Congressman Frank Pallone has sent a letter to the president of Jersey Central Power & Light, demanding that the utility offer detailed explanations about outages that affected his district on Jan. 17, 21 and 26.

Still, even the relative overall successes of power companies during this most recent severe storm can provide lessons for the future.

The power utility has resumed indoor electric meter readings — for several months, many customers' bills have been based on estimated usage.

In about 40 days, utility companies in New Jersey could have the green light to shut off your power, gas or water due to nonpayment.

The BPU approved a rate hike that will cost the average customer around $54 a year, starting in November 2021. A management audit is planned.

The FirstEnergy Foundation has donated $65,000 to 13 Police Chiefs Associations across New Jersey.

Customers can contact their electric, gas and water providers about deferred payment plans, before service shutoffs resume in October.

Ocean County Freeholder Director Vicari along with Monmouth County Freeholder Director Tom Arnone announced that they are teaming up and making a push to have a Jersey Shore representative on the State Board of Public Utilities.

Federal officials recommend after four hours without power, throw out refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs and leftovers.

Blame the power companies, not the lineworkers. They are doing their best with limited resources.