PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Julie Maus
Manager of Media Relations
(417) 625-5101 jmaus@empiredistrict.com

EMPIRE DISTRICT ANNOUNCES NEW ONLINE/MOBILE SERVICES FOR CUSTOMERS

JOPLIN, MO - January 29, 2014 - Customers today increasingly rely upon online and mobile communications to stay informed. To keep pace with this growing trend, we've created a mobile version of our website, added a mobile payment feature and launched a social media presence.
The mobile website easily links customers to MyAccount for secure access to statements, usage and payment information on the go. The site also provides a list of payment locations, Empire's stock quote, current outage information and the option to report an outage from a mobile device. The Empire App is free to download from Apple and Google Play online stores, or use the link on our website at
www.empiredistrict.com.
A new pay-by-text option is also now available for customers. The new feature allows customers to receive a bill notification via text message five days prior to their due date. They may choose to pay using their mobile device or with one of Empire's traditional payment options. To register for payment by text, have your 9-digit account number ready and visit Empire's Customer Service page and click on Billing and Payment information. Customers may discontinue the service at any time.
Empire is now available on Facebook. To find us, go to www.facebook.com/EmpireDistrictElectricor visit our website and click on the Facebook icon. The page includes the latest updates on outages, energy efficiency programs and other news and information.
Based in Joplin, Missouri, The Empire District Electric Company (NYSE: EDE) is an investor-owned, regulated utility providing electricity, natural gas (through its wholly owned subsidiary The Empire District Gas Company), and water service, with approximately 216,000 customers in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. A subsidiary of the Company also provides fiber optic services. For more information regarding Empire, visit www.empiredistrict.com.
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