NIPSCO Reminds Customers to Call Before Digging

NIPSCO reminds anyone with outdoor plans that involve digging to call 811 before doing so. Officials say digging into underground lines is the biggest risk to NIPSCO’s gas system and the leading cause of damage. So-called “blind digging” damages an underground utility line every six minutes, according to Common Ground Alliance. Striking an underground line can harm you and others, disrupt service to an entire neighborhood and potentially result in fines and repair costs. Continue reading

NIPSCO Introduces Power Outage Alerts for Customers

NIPSCO customers can get information about power outages in the palms of their hands by signing up for NIPSCO Alerts. Information about estimated restoration time will be sent via text, email or automated telephone message. The utility does not charge for the service, but individual wireless carriers may charge for text and data usage. Customers with an online account can visit NIPSCO.com/Alerts or call 1-800-4NIPSCO (1-800-464-7726) to sign up. Continue reading

Utility Provider Encourages Marking Service Lines Prior to Spring Work

A local utility provider is encouraging safety before individuals or businesses begin any spring and summer excavation projects.

NIPSCO says April marks National Safe Digging Month and is encouraging residents to call the national “call-before-you-dig” number 8-1-1 two days prior to starting work. The 48 hour suggestion allows work crews to properly mark utility lines to avoid problems.

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Statewide Winter Moratorium Ends, Utility Payment Assistance Still Available

The state-mandated moratorium on utility service disconnection during the winter months is over. However, several forms of payment assistance are still available for low-income families who need help paying their heating bills. These include assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) Program. It is available to households that fall within 150 percent of federal poverty guidelines and is administered through local community action agencies. LIHEAP-eligible NIPSCO customers may also qualify for additional discounts through the NIPSCO Customer Assistance for Residential Energy, or CARE, program. Applications are made at the same time as those for LIHEAP assistance. Continue reading

NIPSCO Offers Tips to Stay Warm and Save Energy

The continued cold weather means higher utility bills for Hoosiers. NIPSCO offers a variety of energy efficiency rebates that can save money in both the short and long-term. They include up to $450 back, on attic insulation with air sealing, up to $250 back on a 95 percent efficient furnace, a $20 rebate on a programmable thermostat and a $50 rebate on a smart wi-fi thermostat. Customers can schedule a free home energy assessment by calling 1-800-721-7385. Continue reading