PORTLAND, Ore. — As the federal government shutdown continues to strain household finances, Portland General Electric (PGE) and Pacific Power have announced temporary measures to protect vulnerable customers from losing electricity service.
Both companies confirmed they will pause power disconnections through the end of the year, offering financial relief to residents who may be struggling to keep up with utility payments during this uncertain period.
The decision comes in response to growing concerns from state lawmakers about the economic impact of the shutdown on working families. On Friday, State Senator Deb Patterson sent a letter to the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC), urging state regulators to take immediate action to ensure that Oregonians are not left without essential services.
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The letter — co-signed by 17 other elected officials — called on utilities to adopt consistent, compassionate policies that would protect customers who fall behind on payments as a direct result of the federal funding halt.
“No family should face the impossible choice between putting food on the table or heating their home in cold weather,” Sen. Patterson wrote. “Disconnecting people from their utilities in this extraordinarily difficult time will make it even tougher for families to stay afloat.”
A spokesperson for PGE said the company’s commitment goes beyond its normal winter protection program, which already prevents power shutoffs during periods of extreme weather. The spokesperson emphasized that the new measures are meant to ensure “no customer loses service due to circumstances beyond their control.”
Pacific Power echoed this sentiment, stating that it remains committed to keeping homes connected while working with customers to set up flexible payment arrangements and connect them to energy assistance programs offered through state and nonprofit partners.
Community advocates have praised the utilities’ decision, noting that power disconnections during the colder months could endanger public health, particularly for seniors, low-income families, and those relying on medical equipment at home.
The Oregon Public Utility Commission has not yet announced whether it will issue a formal statewide directive to all utilities, but several commissioners have voiced support for similar protective actions.
For now, customers of PGE and Pacific Power are encouraged to contact their providers directly if they anticipate payment challenges. Utility representatives say that open communication is key to preventing billing issues and ensuring continued service while the shutdown remains unresolved.
The temporary suspension of disconnections is expected to remain in effect through December 31, providing critical relief for thousands of Oregon households navigating financial uncertainty as the government impasse continues.
