Omaha Public Power District is launching a new door-to-door outreach, bringing customer service directly to the homes of those who may need support with billing, payment options and financial assistance programs.
Starting Aug. 31, and for the next several weeks, two-person teams will visit selected customers’ homes to answer questions, help explain bills, offer support, and connect them with financial assistance programs as needed.
This is the first time OPPD has offered in-person assistance at customers’ homes.
The pilot is the result of feedback the Nebraska public power utility received during recent community resource fairs.
“We heard from customers that they want OPPD to be more present and visible, not only during billing challenges but throughout the year. This outreach is one step toward strengthening community ties and exploring new ways to meet customers where they are,” it said.
OPPD is sending postcards in advance to several hundred customers it plans to visit within small pockets of Omaha, Bellevue, La Vista, Papillion and Elkhorn.
In addition, it will provide information about the pilot to their neighborhoods via the Nextdoor app.
Employees will clearly identify themselves with OPPD badges and branded clothing, and no payments will ever be taken at the door. If a customer isn’t home, the OPPD team will leave a tag with information on how to connect with OPPD for support.
“With this new kind of outreach effort, we do want to warn customers of the potential for scammers. If anyone shows up at your door unannounced, without wearing company apparel, or failing to present a badge, do not allow entry. If you feel threatened, call 911,” OPPD said.
