Press Release

PUC Seeks Comments Interim Marketing, Sales Practice Guidelines for Electric Generation, Natural Gas Suppliers

Published on 7/15/2010

Filed under: Electric Gas

HARRISBURG – In order to facilitate the effective operation of a vigorous, dynamic, yet fair, competitive residential energy market, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today issued for comment interim guidelines for marketing and sales practices for electric generation suppliers (EGSs) and natural gas suppliers (NGSs).

The Commission voted 5-0 to seek comment on proposed guidelines that cover a wide range of topics and recommend best practices for direct (door-to-door) marketing and telemarketing and sales. The proposed guidelines will apply to both EGSs and NGSs and to any entity conducting activities on their behalf. Commission Vice Chairman Tyrone J. Christy issued a statement.

With the expiration of electric rate caps, more and more EGSs are entering the state’s retail electric generation supply market. As a result, more and more consumers are being exposed to unfamiliar marketing strategies and sales techniques including direct sales or door-to-door sales. The Commission said suppliers will be expected to conduct themselves with the guidelines in mind so that their sales and marketing activities do not call into question the fairness and integrity of the competitive market.

The Commission’s goal is to provide all parties who will be affected by the proposed guidelines to have input before the procedures are finalized. The proposed interim guidelines were developed by the PUC’s Office of Competitive Market Oversight as a result of meetings held with PUC working groups including CHARGE (Committee Handling Activities for Retail Growth in Electricity) and SEARCH (Stakeholders Exploring Avenues to Remove Competitive Hurdles).

Comments are due no later than 30 days of the entry date of the Order. Reply comments will be accepted 15 days thereafter. More information on how to comment can be found in the entered Order.

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 website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No. M-2010-2185981

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