|
|
         |
Frequently
Asked Questions
|
 |
Membership
Application |
|
Service
Application |
|
Easement
(if applicable) |
|
Assignment
of Business Recourse (Business Accounts) |
You
will need to provide:
|
Valid
Picture Identification (driver's license, military I.D., etc.) |
|
Proof
of Social Security Number |
|
Proof
of home ownership (if purchasing) |
|
All
necessary permits (if a mobile home) |
|
Rent
agreement (when applicable) |
May
I apply for service over the telephone?
Generally no. Black River Electric Cooperative is a not-for-profit electric cooperative. To protect the assets of all our members, applications for service are done in person. In special circumstances, facsimile applications may be accepted. You may contact customerservice@blackriver.coop for more detailed information.
How
much is my deposit?
The standard residential deposit is $400; however, a derogatory credit report or unusually high usage may result in a higher deposit. A valid letter of credit from another utility, showing an excellent pay record for at least one year, may reduce your deposit. Active duty military members should check with their orderly room for utility deposit waiver information. All members are required to pay a $5 membership fee. Commercial and business deposits are handled on a case by case basis.
What
permits are required for a mobile home?
County
governments regulate the types of permits required. As a general rule, you
will need:
|
septic
tank permit (Department of Health and Environmental Control) |
|
electrical
inspection permit (Planning and Zoning Department) |
|
mobile
home license (County Treasurer's Office) |
|
proof
of ownership (Sales Center) |
You may contact customerservice@blackriver.coop for information on your specific location.
When
will the electricity be connected?
If a new electric line must be built, the customary construction time is 5-7 business days. If construction is not required, generally service will be connected within 24 hours.
Where
can I pay my bill?
Payments are accepted at the headquarters office in Sumter and at the Branch Office in Camden. Both locations have an after-hours drop-box located near the drive-through window. You may also mail your payment to P.O. Box 130 Sumter SC 29151.
How
long do I have to pay my bill?
Accounts
unpaid for 25 days following the mailing date are
May
I make payment arrangements?
All
electric bills are payable when rendered. To protect members' assets, the
Cooperative does not extend credit beyond the final due date. There are
several governmental and charitable organizations to help those experiencing financial
difficulties. The Credit Manager will direct members to the appropriate
agencies.
May
I pay my bill by credit card?
Black River Electric Cooperative now offers the convenience of bill paying over the Internet. Simply to make a safe, secure and easy electronic payment using a Visa or MasterCard credit card or debit card. There is absolutely no processing fee for using this service. For more information about this service, click here.
Western Union Quick Collect: Black River is an authorized collection site for Western Union payments. Simply go to the nearest Western Union office and process a "Quick Collect" payment for our code city-"Blackriver" and state-"SC". Your payment will be processed and a check printed in our office within 30 minutes of completing your transaction. A $12.95 fee is collected by Western Union for this service.
What
are the rates?
Black River's residential rate is 9.3 cents per kilowatt hour with a $15 per month facility charge. The small business rate is a $30 facility charge per month and 9.3 cents per KwH, no demand charge under 50KW for single phase service. Other rates, both large power and industrial, are available upon request.
Do
you offer a residential time of use rate?
No.
The residential rate remains the same regardless of time of day.
When
will I receive my capital credits?
In the Year 2006, credits accumulated in 1991 are being paid. Consumers must have had service during 1991 to receive a capital credit check this year.
I
believe I should have received a check and did not. What should I do?
If you received electric service in your name in years prior to 1991 and did not receive a capital credit check, please contact the billing department at 803-469-8060 or accountinfo@blackriver.coop. Each year hundreds of checks are returned as undeliverable. The Cooperative maintains a record of these accounts and will re-issue checks when applicable.
Do
you discount your capital credits and pay them early?
No. Capital credits are paid at full value at the appropriate time.
I
am not moving back to the area, what should I do to get my capital credits?
It
is important the Cooperative have a valid address to mail your check. If
you may be moving frequently, we suggest a permanent address or the address of a
close
relative. Contact accountinfo@blackriver.coop
to update your address.
What
must I do to settle the estate of a member?
Black River is one of the few Cooperatives in the state that pays the entire estate through the year of death for deceased members. To settle the estate you will need the death certificate and the appointment of executorship or letter from the probate judge appointing a trustee. The account must also be transferred from the deceased member. For additional information you may contact the Billing Department at 803-469-8060 or accountinfo@blackriver.coop.