How to Pay Your Utility Bill with Grand Rapids Public Utilities

Paying your monthly utility bill is a regular necessity for residents and businesses in Grand Rapids, MN. Grand Rapids Public Utilities Commission (GRPUC) offers electric, water, and wastewater services to the city. They make paying your utility bill quick and easy through various options. This guide will provide an overview of GRPUC, explain your utility bill, and outline the payment methods available.

About Grand Rapids Public Utilities

GRPUC is a municipally-owned utility providing essential services to Grand Rapids residents and businesses. Key facts about the utility include:

• Provides electric, water, and wastewater treatment services.

• Serves approximately 11,000 customers in Grand Rapids.

• Has 50+ employees overseen by a Public Utilities Commission.

• Operates a 24 MW coal-fired power plant supplemented by wind and hydro power.

• Maintains 250 miles of water mains, two water towers, and a water treatment plant.

• Treats over 2.5 million gallons of wastewater daily.

• Is a not-for-profit entity focused on reliability and affordability.

GRPUC’s mission is to provide safe, reliable and cost-effective utility services to the Grand Rapids community.

Reviewing Your GRPUC Bill

GRPUC utility bills consist of various service fees that are important to review before making a payment:

• Electric Usage – This charge is based on the kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity used each month. Rates vary by customer type.

• Water Usage – Households are billed per 1,000 gallons based on a monthly meter reading Usage fee increases at higher volumes

• Wastewater – This fixed monthly fee helps fund wastewater treatment operations. It is based on water meter size.

• Customer Charge – This daily base charge covers administrative costs like meter reading and billing.

• Equipment Charge – Fees for meter maintenance and equipment rental may apply.

• Late Fee – A penalty is added for paying after the due date.

• Taxes – Local taxes on services will be itemized.

Reviewing usage and charges ensures your bill is accurate before making payment.

Ways to Pay Your GRPUC Bill

GRPUC offers a variety of options to pay your utility bill conveniently:

Online Payment

The quickest way to pay is through GRPUC’s online payment portal. You can securely pay by credit/debit card or e-check.

Phone Payment

Call the payment hotline at 1-855-456-5158 to process payments over the phone.

Mail-In Payment

Detach the payment stub from your bill and mail it with a check or money order to GRPUC. Allow 5 days for processing.

Drive-Up Drop Box

Place your payment in the secure drop box located in the parking lot outside the GRPUC office.

In-Person Payment

Visit the GRPUC office during business hours to pay by cash, check, or money order.

Automatic Bank Drafts

Sign up to have your bill amount automatically drafted from your bank account each month.

Budget Billing

This option lets you pay a fixed amount each month to avoid seasonal spikes. Your account is later reconciled based on actual usage.

Payment Arrangements

If unable to pay in full, call GRPUC to discuss installment plans or payment extensions.

Energy Assistance

Qualified low-income customers can receive financial assistance through state and federal programs.

Tips for Paying Your Bill on Time

Follow these tips for a smooth bill payment process each month:

• Provide accurate account information and update any changes to ensure proper billing.

• Go paperless with e-billing and autopay to avoid missed due dates.

• Monitor your usage online and set alerts to detect abnormal activity.

• Improve energy efficiency to control electricity costs with thermostats and upgrades.

• Take advantage of GRPUC’s rebates on LED lights, insulation, appliances, and more.

• Contact GRPUC immediately if you are unable to pay or need payment assistance.

• Compare GRPUC’s rates annually to nearby electric providers when able to switch.

Paying your utility bill does not have to be a hassle. GRPUC’s online account tools and range of payment methods allow easy, efficient payment. Sign up for an online account today to monitor usage, manage bills, and pay in seconds each month.