Memphis faces high utility cutoff rates and power outage relief efforts

Memphis is facing significant utility and power challenges. Data indicates that approximately one in five households in Memphis experienced at least one utility cutoff for nonpayment in 2025. Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) reported that 75,378 households faced disconnections last year, representing a cutoff rate of 19.9 percent. Experts note that household disconnections have risen by nearly 40 percent over the last decade, raising concerns regarding health and safety risks for low-income families.

In a separate development following severe storms, the City of Memphis, in collaboration with the City Council and United Way of the Mid-South, has launched the Memphis Cares program. This initiative will provide up to $100,000 in food assistance to families who lost groceries due to prolonged power outages. The program aims to support high-need households in areas most affected by the recent storm-induced outages.