Power utility PPC’s reduced electricity bill payment collection record appears to be flattening at a rate of about 10 percent, April data has shown, compared to a far sharper drop of 20 to 25 percent in March.

Though these latest figures, still unofficial, are not a cause for celebration, they do represent a major improvement compared to the activity freeze experienced during the first three or so weeks of the lockdown, initiated in March.

PPC had yet to introduce its payment by telephone service, vital for pensioners trapped at home and unfamiliar with online procedures.

Energy sector officials fear consumers will prioritize other pending matters and leave electricity bill payments for later on once the gradual lifting of restrictive measures begins on Monday. The month of May promises to be crucial for PPC’s electricity bill collection record.

Independent electricity suppliers, who weathered electricity bill collection reductions ranging from 20 to 35 percent in March, are also hoping for payment improvements in the immediate future.

However, like PPC, their fear of retailers going out of business and leaving behind bad debt is a headache. The picture should become clearer as of Monday, when businesses of certain categories will be free to reopen.