Just Thursday, we reported on “Krone” reader Nebos S. from Vienna, who has to pay almost four times as much for district heating as before. However, the regulations for electricity, gas and district heating from Wien Energie are now arriving in many households. This is also the case with Martin W. The single disabled Viennese suffered a district heating shock. He not only has to pay a considerable difference, but also transfer an almost unaffordable partial amount of 480 euros to his provider six times a year!
Martin W. lives in Vienna’s Donaustadt. A few days ago he also received his annual district heating statement for 2021/2022.
In this period he caused a total of 1104.32 euros in heating and hot water costs. The Viennese has already partly paid 633 euros. An additional payment of the difference of EUR 471.32 is therefore due.
In future partial amounts of 480 euros
But that is not everything. It is clear from the regulation that Martin W. must pay partial amounts of 480 euros in the future! A plus of 330 euros – because Martin W. had, in his own words, partly paid 150 euros for the price increase. Reason enough for Martin’s father to pass the case on to krone.at.
In the meantime, however, Wien Energie has accommodated its customers. The mega bill was slightly reduced, Martin’s father reports: “You (Wien Energie, note) have already reduced the cost of a partial payment by 100 euros by telephone, if it should be more, I would have to appear personally at the service point.”
Can several Viennese affected by high additional payments hope that Wien Energie will make concessions? krone.at asked company spokeswoman Lisa Grohs.
“Paying in installments is often not enough”
In principle, this question “cannot be answered generally,” says Grohs. “We can’t just waive costs, but in case of payment problems we always look together with the customer at which support options are available.” This is always the case with people with a chronic illness or sudden job loss. In these cases, it is always important to secure long-term energy supply despite payment problems. “Paying in installments is often not enough,” says Grohs, “that only postpones difficulties.” Other ways to keep costs affordable are longer payment terms or several smaller contributions. The company has been offering installment payments and payment deferrals for years.
“Partial Amount Requirement No Billing”
There is also a social ombudsman in the company, who deals with “hardships” and is available with “funding and support services”. In principle, however, it should be noted that a “partial amount requirement is not a settlement”. Only when the bill is actually invoiced can it be determined whether there is a credit or an additional payment. The purpose of the partial amounts is to cover the total costs as well as possible.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
