Press Release

PUC: Consumers Should Call Utilities to Restore Service Despite Prediction for Early Spring as Report Shows 15,491 Homes Without Use of Central Heating System

Published on 2/2/2007

Filed under: Electric Gas

HARRISBURG – While the world’s most famous “weatherman” is calling for an early spring, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) reminds consumers without use of their central heating system to know their rights and contact their utilities for help now.

“While Punxsutawney Phil may be telling us spring is on its way, other weathermen are telling us to brace for the coldest week of the winter,” said Commission Chairman Wendell F. Holland. “While it is good news that about 20 percent more households have utility service than they did in December, more than 15,000 of our neighbors are continuing the winter months without use of their central heating system. All consumers who are without service should take action today to have service restored before next week’s arctic chill sets in.”

As of Feb. 1, 2007, the total number of homes not using a central heating system was 15,491, a 20 percent reduction from the Dec. 15, 2006 total of 19,745.  A chart of the individual company statistics is available online.  In December 2006 about 16,051 households were without heat-related utility service with an additional 3,694 residences using potentially unsafe heating sources. The total number not using a central heating system in December 2005 was 21,063.

The PUC urges consumers to know their rights when it comes to utility service. Programs are available to help qualifying low-income consumers pay their bills or restore service. Consumers should call their utility first. If they are unable to reach an agreement with the utility, call the PUC for assistance at 800-692-7380.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent new releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Contact:

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  717-787-5722