C.J. Gish
Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) announced on Monday it will return utility deposits early to support customers as electric costs rise due to dramatic increases in fuel prices and high usage related to extreme heat.
Florida utility customers have seen particularly dramatic increases in electric bills due to a surge in natural gas prices. GRU uses natural gas to generate electricity.
Customers who have held an account for more than 12 months as of Aug. 2 and who have maintained a satisfactory payment history over that period will receive a credit on their bill in the amount of their deposit. GRU normally holds deposits for 24 months and may return them based on payment history.
This is the latest step GRU has taken to address high summer electric bills. Last week, GRU announced it would waive late fees accrued between the months of July and September.
“We’re doing everything we can to assist our customers during these challenging times,” said GRU Chief Customer Officer Kinn’zon Hutchinson in the press release. “We’re all in this together.”
In addition to these steps, GRU will continue to educate customers about ways to conserve energy and lower usage. Please visit GRU website for tips, resources and information about assistance programs or call customer service at 352-334-3434.