AUSTIN, Texas — Those living in retail electrical services areas will not be disconnected for non-payment on their electric bill. Retail electric providers are in deregulated places where a customer can pick a provider.

The Public Utility Commission of Texas ordered an “immediate suspension of disconnections for non-payment.” This applies “until further notice.”

Also, retail electric providers must offer deferred payment plans if requested.

"Every day a new rock is being turned over where we find things that have to be done and, in my opinion, must be done," DeAnn Walker, PUC chairman, said Feb. 21 in a public meeting.

The order does not apply to cooperatives or municipally-owned providers.

The PUC is investigating what led to the widespread power outages in the state last week.

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