Did you not pay your electricity bill after the 30-day extension? As of 1^er April 2023, if you receive the energy check or support from the Solidarity Fund for Housing (FSL) and you are equipped with a Linky meter, your energy supplier will only be able to interrupt the supply of electricity after a period of power reduction of at least 60 days.

In a context of very high inflation, a 15% increase in electricity and gas bills since the beginning of 2023, some households are struggling to pay their bills.

A decree implementing the law of 16 August 2022 on emergency measures for the protection of purchasing power published on 26 February in Official Journal strengthens the protection of certain consumers in the event of unpaid energy bills.

60-day period of power reduction before shutdown

Before a shutdown or cancelation, a minimum period of 60 days of power reduction up to 1 kVA (kilovolt-ampere) is now set for households receiving an energy check or Solidarity Fund for Housing (FSL) assistance with a communicating meter, in case of unpaid.

This minimum supply of 1 kVA makes it possible to maintain certain essential uses of electricity: lighting, operation of household appliances (fridge, freezer, etc.), recharging of electronic appliances.

During this 60-day power reduction period, your electricity supplier will need to contact you at least twice, including once in writing and once orally, to reach an agreement on the payment of the invoice. If no response or agreement is reached, the supplier may shut off electricity or terminate your contract, provided that you are informed at least 20 days in advance by mail.

Procedure for other clients to settle outstanding claims

Beneficiaries of the energy check or of assistance from the Solidarity Fund for Housing (FSL) but not equipped with a Linky meter shall always be subject to the measures provided for in decree of 13 august 2008. For details of the arrangements for beneficiaries of the energy check or of an FSL aid, see the sheet " Unpaid bills (gas or electricity, water): what are the consequences? ”.

If you do not benefit from the energy check or FSL assistance, this is the general case. For more information, see the fact sheet " Unpaid bills (gas or electricity, water): what are the consequences? ”.