CPU bill-payment programs offer several advantages over third-party providers
September 18, 2020
Clarksdale Public Utilities is reminding customers that its electronic bill-payment options have several advantages over third-party services, including peace of mind that customers’ utility accounts are in good standing.
“Some of our customers are using third-party bill-payment services that make money by charging fees,” said Curtis D. Boschert, CPU general manager. “Many of these options take several days or even weeks to reach CPU. There have been cases where those delays have negatively impacted our customers’ utility accounts.”
Last year, CPU upgraded its PowerLine customer portal and launched a mobile app as part of the utility’s “Bright Future” initiative, a comprehensive strategy that addresses performance improvements in three key areas: reliability, innovation and community growth.
With 24/7 secure account access, customers can check balances, pay bills electronically and sign up for alerts to let them know when bills are due or past due. There is no charge for using CPU’s account tools, and payments are posted immediately — a feature that helps avoid late fees and service interruptions.
In addition to secure, immediate electronic payments, PowerLine allows customers see their account activity in greater detail along with helpful graphs showing their billing and usage history. Customers with multiple service accounts can see all account balances at once, a feature that’s especially convenient for commercial customers such as hospitals that may have 50 or more service accounts with CPU.
Personalized service is part of CPU’s commitment to customers and includes a variety of billing programs designed to fit customers’ budget and payment preferences, such as Pick A Due Date and Level Billing.
Customers can get even more value from their CPU service by signing up for text and email alerts, which can help them avoid past-due notices and late fees if paper bills are delayed or are not delivered. When power outages occur, alerts also provide updates and estimated restoration times.
“We are making it easier and more convenient for customers to do business with CPU,” Boschert said. “PowerLine, our mobile app and account alerts are examples of ways we are using technology to strengthen our connection with customers and improve our services. Sign-up is free, and customers are encouraged to come by our office if they have questions or need assistance in setting up any of our services.”
CPU’s customer portal is available at https://cdpu.net/customer-portal-landing/. The portal includes instructions for accessing accounts and signing up for online service. Customers who have questions or need assistance may contact CPU at 662-627-8499.
Clarksdale Public Utilities is a municipally owned utility serving approximately 6,800 homes and businesses in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Its mission is to safely provide sustainable electric, water and wastewater services in a reliable and courteous manner by well-trained team members, committed to top quality, efficient operations, competitive rates and the vitality of the community.
Learn more at http://cdpu.net.
