PUC: Electric Customers Should Be Cautious Of Door-To-Door, Telephone Solicitations

The Public Utility Commission Wednesday reminded Pennsylvania residents to be diligent when weighing electricity offers from door-to-door and telephone solicitors.

“Customers can save money on their electric generation by shopping, and we encourage them to join the more than 2 million of their neighbors who have already switched,” PUC Chairman Robert F. Powelson said. “Like entering any contract, customers should read closely and make sure the terms of their written contract are consistent with those discussed with the salesperson.”

Since 1997, consumers have had the option to select the company that provides their electric generation, suppliers. Local electric distribution companies, utilities, will still operate and maintain the lines that provide electric to homes, but consumers are able to select the company that sells the electric power or generation that is delivered over those distribution lines.

For more information on shopping for electricity and each component on your bill, visit www.PAPowerSwitch.com.

In recent months, especially following the recent harsh winter and significant electric generation price increases, some Pennsylvania residents have seen an increase in the number of door-to-door sales pitches and telemarketing of electricity from competitive suppliers.

“We want every consumer to have a positive shopping experience. We encourage shoppers to carefully weigh the offer and ensure they are dealing with legitimate suppliers before sharing account information or signing a new contract,” Chairman Powelson said. “If a consumer is uncomfortable with a sales pitch, they should contact us.”

Customers who believe they have been provided with misleading information about prices, terms and conditions by an energy supplier, broker or marketer are encouraged to file an informal complaint with the PUC’s Bureau of Consumer Services at 1-800-692-7380. If consumers feel their safety is threatened, they should immediately call their local police.

The PUC offered the following tips to help consumers protect themselves from scams and protect themselves if deciding to switch energy providers:

Door-to-door

-- Supplier sales representatives are required to prominently display a photo ID showing their name and the name of the supplier for whom they are working.

— If not displayed, ask for identification.

— Suppliers will only need your account information when you are ready to make the switch.

— Utilities do not normally come to your door unless you have called them.

— If someone claims to be a utility representative and wishes to enter your home, call the utility company to verify if they have personnel in the area.

Telemarketing

— Ask for the name of the supplier.

— Ask for the price and other terms and conditions. Know and understand how it compares to your utility price.

— Only share account information over the phone if you are ready to make a switch.

— Do not feel pressured to make any decisions over the phone or immediately.

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