I&M pausing disconnections due to air quality
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Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) is temporarily suspending disconnections for customers. The Fort Wayne-based utility said this week the move is due to “unprecedented levels of unhealthy air quality” caused by the Canadian wildfires.
The smoke from the wildfires has caused the majority of the state to experience very high levels of unhealthy air consisting of fine particulate matter.
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management is continuing to issue Air Quality Action Days, with the entire state’s air quality being deemed unhealthy for sensitive groups on Friday.
“Our region is experiencing sustained levels of extremely poor air quality, and we do not want to deprive our customers of access to air conditioning and other means of generating air that is safe to breathe,” I&M President and Chief Operating Officer Steve Baker said in a news release.
The suspension for non-payment will run through the Fourth of July holiday. I&M said it will reevaluate air quality and determine next steps on July 5.
I&M Director of Communications Stephanny Smith told Indiana Public Media the utility is only suspending planned disconnections during this period. Those who already had their power disconnected will not have it turned back on, and I&M will continue to add on late fees to unpaid bills.
I&M serves approximately 600,000 customers across its coverage area, which includes northeast Indiana, as well as portions of northern Indiana and southwest Michigan.