In December 2019, just two2 months after the social outburst, the Chilean governments recorded nearly 15,000 companies affected by acts of violence (arson, ransacking, partial or complete destruction) or by a drop in business.  Gustavo Álvarez is one of those affected. As the owner of a minimarket in La Reina, he has seen sales drop by 50% and believes they could continue to fall.

Given this complex scenario, Enel is carrying out its “SMEs Support” plan, which consists of a five-month suspension in electricity shut-offs due to non-payment (equivalent to delaying payment of the last bill for five months), exemption of default interest and late fees, and the possibility of signing a special payment plan, with no down payment and up to 12 interest-free installments.

Small and medium-sized companies’ cases were processed in records kept by the Ministry of Economy, the Santiago City Government and Enel. Upon analysis, electricity shut-offs and the payment of interest was suspended for nearly 2,000 customers, with payment plans offered to nearly 1,400 SMEs. 

A few years ago, Gustavo Alvarez took a chance on work independence and started his own business. He affirms that it has been “very difficult to make money” during these times, and he appreciates the “different payment options” offered to him by Enel. His store suffered no damage or ransacking, but rather it is the sharp drop in sales that has affected his business. Therefore, the payment plan signed with Enel has been a great aid to confront these times. “They have been very understanding,” he highlights.

How does the SMEs Support Plan work?

• Enel first contacted the companies to learn more about their situation and offer them special conditions.
• Companies wishing to sign a special payment plan go to Enel’s commercial offices with the information required for formalization.

Results as of February 11^th

• 1,905 customers covered by the suspension of electricity shut-offs and payment of interest due to non-payment
• 1,349 contacted and informed about benefits
• Of the 1,905 total SMEs registered to date, 578 are up-to-date with their payments and 130 have signed a special payment plan.