Wisconsin to Start Winter Utility Disconnection Moratorium

The annual protection against heating service loss begins statewide on November 1.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Utilities

Bold flat-color editorial illustration showing a geometric heating vent against a textured brick wall, representing Wisconsin's winter utility policy. — Wisconsin's annual winter moratorium on utility disconnections takes effect November 1, 2026, protecting residents' access to essential residential heating. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you feel adequately supported to manage your household heating costs this winter?

Beginning November 1, 2026, Wisconsin utility providers are prohibited from disconnecting residential heating services for nonpayment. This winter moratorium is designed to protect residents from losing essential heating access during the coldest months of the year.

Why it matters

The annual policy ensures households can maintain heat despite potential financial difficulties throughout the winter season. Residents are encouraged to proactively contact their utility providers to manage their accounts and establish payment arrangements to remain in good standing.

Energy assistance eligibility is limited to families earning less than 60% of the median state income. Current income limits for assistance range from $39,864 for a single-person household to $88,927 for a household of five.

The players

Public Service Commission

This state agency oversees utility regulation and accepts consumer complaints if residents cannot reach an agreement with their utility provider.

Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program

This program provides financial support to eligible low-income households to help cover their heating and electric costs.

We Energies

This major utility provider serves a significant customer base across the state and requires customers to contact them directly for payment plans.

The details

While the moratorium prevents new disconnections, it does not mandate the reconnection of services for customers already disconnected unless payment arrangements are secured. Families in need of support can utilize the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program, which provides a one-time annual payment toward electric and heating bills.

The winter moratorium on utility disconnections begins on November 1, 2026.
The winter moratorium on utility disconnections expires on April 15, 2027.

Market Landscape

This policy follows the established framework of the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program to manage energy poverty. It dictates how utility providers navigate revenue collection during the winter months while balancing state-mandated social protections.

Residents behind on their bills should contact their provider immediately to set up payment plans to ensure their service remains active throughout the winter. If an agreement cannot be reached, customers can file a formal complaint with the Public Service Commission at 608-266-2001.

The takeaway

Maintaining communication with your utility company is essential even while protected by seasonal moratoria. Proactive management of payment plans is the most effective way to prevent service loss when these state protections expire in the spring.

What happens next

Utility customers are advised to establish necessary payment plans before the moratorium expires on April 15, 2027, to avoid the risk of service disconnection.