Having reliable electric service is essential for every home and business in Hermiston, Oregon. As a customer of Hermiston Energy Services (HES) it’s important you understand your monthly energy bill and know the ways to pay it. HES offers convenient online phone, and in-person payment options to make paying your bill quick and easy each month.
About Hermiston Energy Services
Hermiston Energy Services is the municipal electric utility providing power to the residents and businesses of Hermiston, OR HES generates and distributes electricity to around 7,500 customers in the area.
Some key facts about HES:
- Formed in 1941 to serve Hermiston
- Owned by the City of Hermiston
- Governed by the Hermiston City Council
- Sources power from Bonneville Power Administration
- Over 130 miles of distribution lines
- Office located at Umatilla Electric Cooperative
Understanding Your Energy Bill
Reviewing the details on your monthly HES bill is important to understand your usage and charges Key sections include
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Account Information: Lists account number, service address, and billing period. Verify for accuracy.
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Meter Readings: Shows current and previous meter readings and total kilowatt hours used.
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Account Summary: Displays charges for electricity usage, city franchise fee, and any prior balance.
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Messages: Important notices related to your account may print here.
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Payment Due Date: Payment must be received by this date to avoid late fees. Mark your calendar.
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Comparison: Graph showing your energy usage over the past 13 months.
Ways to Pay Your HES Energy Bill
Hermiston Energy Services offers several payment options for customers to pay their monthly electric bill:
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Online: Pay anytime 24/7 via SmartHub using credit/debit cards or e-check.
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Phone: Call the automated pay-by-phone line anytime to pay with a card.
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Mail: Send a check or money order to the HES PO Box. Allow 5-7 days to post.
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In Person: Visit the HES office during business hours to pay with cash, check or card.
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Auto Pay: Enroll to have your bill automatically drafted from your bank account each month.
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Drop Box: Place your payment in the drop box at the HES office.
I recommend setting up autopay or paperless billing to simplify paying each month. Always pay the full amount due by the due date.
Payment Assistance Programs from HES
If you are struggling to pay your energy bill on time, HES does offer programs that may help, such as:
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Payment arrangements – Set up a monthly payment plan for past due balances
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Extensions – Receive a short extension on your payment due date if needed
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Average billing – Pay a fixed amount each month based on your usage history
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Low-income assistance – Federal and state programs provide utility bill aid
Contact HES immediately if you anticipate difficulty paying a bill so they can go over the options available to you. Don’t wait until you receive a shutoff notice.
Avoiding Late Fees and Disconnection
Pay your HES electric bill in full by the due date each month to avoid penalties and potential service disconnection, including:
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Late fee – 10% penalty charge added to overdue balances
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Disconnect notice – Mailed if your account becomes 15 days past due
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Electric shutoff – Service disconnected if bill remains unpaid
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Reconnect fee – $25 during business hours or $125 after hours
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Security deposit – Additional deposit required after disconnection
Staying current on your account will help avoid extra fees and disruption to your electrical service. Notify HES promptly if you foresee an issue with paying on time.
Summary of Paying Your HES Energy Bill
Paying your monthly electric bill to Hermiston Energy Services is quick and convenient through their online, phone, and in-person payment options. Enroll in autopay or paperless billing to simplify the process each month. If you anticipate problems paying on time, contact HES immediately to discuss payment assistance programs or arrangements. Paying your balance in full and on time every month will help avoid penalties and interrupted electrical service.
