What is PrePay?
With PrePay, you pay for your electricity in advance. You can purchase electricity as much and as often as you desire. Instead of a monthly billing statement, your electric use and account balance are calculated daily. You can track your account by phone or using the SmartHub app online or on a smart device.
How does PrePay work?
PrePay is a self-managed program. When your account runs low, you will get an alert by text or email that lets you know it's time to recharge your account.
Who can participate in the PrePay Program?
Northwestern REC members receiving electric service under the residential rate can participate in the PrePay Program. It is preferred that members have a zero balance before enrolling in the PrePay Program, however, accounts with past due balances may still be eligible.
How much does it cost to set up?
There is no enrollment fee to setup a prepaid account. To get started, you need a $30 credit balance on your account. Existing accounts with past due balances may still be eligible. A Member Services Rep will work with you.
What is the electric rate on the PrePay Program?
The PrePay rate is the same as the Single Phase Residential Rate. That rate is currently $0.10104 per kWh.
How can I check my balance?
You can check your balance online by logging in to your SmartHub account, found at NorthwesterREC.com. You can also use SmartHub on any smart device. To download the app, search for "NISC SMARTHUB" in the app store found on your device. Or you can call 1-800-352-0014 to receive information regarding your prepaid account.
How much money should I keep in my prepaid account?
It's up to you! Buy energy to last for a few days or several months.
How do I make payments?
Members can "fill-up" their PrePay accounts by making payments through the SmartHub app, at the co-op headquarters, or at various locations that accept MoneyGram payments (use receiver code: 15145). Credit/debit card payments can be made over the telephone 24-hours a day by calling Member Services at 1-800-352-0014.
What if my account runs low or runs out completely?
You will receive a low-balance email or text base on the number of days you have remaining. This will give you time to buy more power.
If you do not purchase more power before hitting "empty," the meter will store, as will your power. To have your power turned back on, you must 1) pay for any electricity used after hitting "empty" and 2) have a $30 credit balance on your account. Once you reach a $30 credit balance, your power is restored immediately.
If a $30 credit balance is not achieved ten days after disconnection, you will be converted back to a regular residential account and billed for your monthly use, which will include a $200 deposit.
Will my power turn off during the winter months?
No. During the winter moratorium (Dec. 1 - Apr. 1), you will have ten days to restore a credit balance.
If no payments are made and a $30 credit balance achieved, you will be converted back to a regular residential account and billed for your monthly use, which will include a $200 deposit.
How do I sign up?
Call the Member Services Department at 1-800-352-0014. After we confirm your eligibility, a serve crew will install a special prepay meter. There is no fee for this meter or installation.