Press Release

PUC Reminds Consumers At Risk of Termination to Call Now to Maintain Electric, Natural Gas Service

Published on 1/16/2009

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – With a cold snap gripping the state, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today reminded consumers at risk of termination to call their utility now to maintain electric or natural gas utility service this winter.

“Residents need to remember that electric and natural gas service can be terminated during the winter months unless you fall within certain low-income guidelines,” said Commission Chairman James H. Cawley. “If you receive a termination notice, please do not ignore it. Call your utility immediately. Make it aware of your situation. Resources are available to help you maintain service. If you are not satisfied with the utility response, please call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380.”

Utility service can be shut off during the winter months without the PUC’s prior approval, provided that the household income exceeds $4,417 a month for a family of four. Philadelphia Gas Works customers can be terminated if the household income exceeds $2,650 a month for a family of four. Low-income consumers may qualify for special programs and termination protections. However, consumers must call their utility to make it aware of their financial situation.

Prior to termination, the utility company will provide a notice and give consumers the opportunity to contact it to make arrangements to avoid termination. If service is shut off during the winter (Dec. 1 to March 31), your utility service will be restored within 24 hours after you pay the bill and meet any other conditions of the utility company.

In October, the PUC asked its jurisdictional electric and natural gas utilities to review termination and reconnection procedures, and to be flexible in allowing customers to maintain or restore service whenever possible.

On Dec. 16, 2008, the PUC released the results of its annual Cold Weather Survey, which showed that 17,745 homes in the state did not have use of their central-heating system. Those residents also are encouraged to call their utility first – then the PUC – for information on the resources available to help consumers restore and maintain service.

Additional information about the law that applies to the termination and reconnection of utility service can be found on the PUC Web site.

This marks the sixth year of the Commission’s “Prepare Now” outreach campaign. The message is simple: “Prepare Now” for higher energy costs this winter.  Learn about changes in the law related to utility shut-offs and reconnections. Know your rights.  Save money by learning how to conserve energy.  Heat your home safely.  Explore budget billing options. Look into programs that help low-income customers restore and maintain service. Visit www.puc.state.pa.us, and click on “Prepare Now” or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380. The PUC also is actively participating in Gov. Rendell’s Stay Warm PA campaign – “Turn Down. Seal Off. Save Up.” Visit www.turnsealsave.org for more information.

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 news 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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• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722