JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Catherine Worth says when it comes to her utility bill, it can be a guessing game. "Ours does go up a little bit depending on the time of year."
But starting next year, customers will have all of the control with JEA pay-as-you-go accounts. "You will be able to put money into your account daily or weekly," said JEA spokesperson, Gerri Boyce.
These accounts will be run with a two-way meter that will allow JEA to remotely cut off or turn on power immediately.
"That is one less truck we won't have to roll out. It's much more efficient, and it will save our customers money," said Boyce.
People who use pay-as-you-go will only have to pay a $50 deposit instead of hundreds like some customers who are billed monthly. JEA will also warn customers when there accounts are getting low.
"For those who do not want or can't pay a deposit, this would be a good option," said Boyce.
"That's helpful for a lot of people who are trying to get themselves out or are working toward better credit," said Worth.
JEA expects about 10-percent of their customers to move to this system. The system is being tested now, but they hope to have it up and running early next year.
