NES announces tornado recovery assistance as crews work to restore power

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Nashville Electric Service announced Tornado Recovery Assistance on Monday for residents impacted by the deadly tornadoes that left destruction across Middle Tennessee.

NES says the program waives installation and connection fees for impacted customers who require new service installation at their location as a result of the disaster.

The utility is also waiving their $495 cut-in fee for temporary meter contractors to run power tools and equipment during prep work. Deposit and connection fees will not be charged until June 3 for displaced customers who need service at a new location or their current address, NES said.

Late fees will also be reversed upon request through April 30th for those impacted by the tornadoes.

“The natural disaster our city experienced last week created chaos in the lives of thousands of our customers,” said Decosta Jenkins, NES President and CEO. “As neighbors, we want to do as much as we can to alleviate some of the stress they’re having to endure. Our Tornado Recovery Assistance aims to lift some of the financial burden required to having power restored to impacted customers’ homes and businesses. We’re pleased to be able to offer this relief and will continue to find other ways to support those impacted by the tornado in the weeks and months ahead.”

In the NES service area, the storm caused power outages for approximately 50,000 customers and damaged or destroyed over 900 power poles. As of Monday, crews have restored powers to nearly 45,000 customers and replaced 350 poles. NES said they will work nonstop until power is restored to all customers.

Metro Water Services said they plan to suspend cut-offs and waive late fees for the month of March.

Find more information about the Tornado Recovery Assistance here.