Utility boards must give three written warnings and two to four months' notice before cutting off electricity
Thursday, April 20, 2017 @ 11:24 PM
ELECTRICITY firms will be required to give three warnings and then wait at least four months before cutting off power due to non-payment, according to a draft law sent to Spain's 17 autonomously-governed regions by the central government.
Two months' grace after the three warnings will be given to the average householder, but those listed as 'vulnerable' or who are in receipt of social service funding, or registered with the electricity board for benefits reducing their bills due to poverty, will get a four-month breathing space to try to find the money before they lose their connection.
Spain's ministry for energy has drawn up the law text based upon the contributions of all political groups which supported the move for 'energy benefits' to be allowed to very low-income households on a means-tested basis.
Income levels are set for those who qualify, but are higher for householders with disabilities or who have to care for disabled relatives full-time.
Utility boards must now inform customers of their non-payment as soon as this occurs, then request the money via a legal document known as a burofax sent by registered post, or by email with a digital signature.
Read more at thinkSPAIN.com