Press Release

As Winter Weather Continues, PUC Urges 11,772 Consumers Without Utility Service to Act Now

Published on 2/5/2013

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – With forecasters expecting more cold temperatures and possible snow in some areas of the state this week, the Public Utility Commission (PUC) reminds the 11,772 consumers without use of a central heating system or using a potentially unsafe heating source in their homes to call about programs to help restore natural gas or electric service.

“For the tenth year, the Commission has entered into a ‘Prepare Now’ campaign, and we’re working to get the message to people about programs available to them through their utilities and also through the Department of Public Welfare,” said PUC Commissioner Pamela Witmer in a video news release. “We also want to remind Pennsylvanians that utilities are not permitted to terminate service for utility customers with household incomes at or below 250% of the Federal poverty level during a period of time through March 31, but as of April 1 forward, utilities can terminate customers for past due balances regardless of income, so we encourage customers having trouble making payments to contact their utility to set up a payment arrangement.”

The PUC encourages consumers without utility service to know their rights and responsibilities. Consumers should obtain information about programs available to help them restore and maintain utility service. Consumers with a seriously ill resident in the household or a protection from abuse order may have additional options for service restoration.

As of Feb. 4, 2013, the total number of homes not using a central heating system was 11,772, a 35 percent reduction from the Dec. 17, 2012, total of 18,116.  The information is a follow up to the annual Cold Weather Survey results. Some households may be without both electric and natural gas service, resulting in a double counting of some households.

A chart of the individual company statistics is available online.  In December 2012, about 15,975 households were without heat-related utility service, with an additional 2,141 residences using potentially unsafe heating sources.  The total number not using a central heating system in December 2011 was 20,034 and 12,316 in February 2012.

Consumers should call their utility first to make arrangements to pay their bill. If they are unable to reach an agreement with the utility, the PUC may be able to provide assistance. The PUC can be reached toll-free at 1-800-692-7380.

This winter marks the PUC’s tenth “Prepare Now” campaign where the message is simple: “Prepare Now” for higher energy costs this winter.  Learn about changes in the law related to utility terminations and reconnections and 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.pa.gov, and click on “Prepare Now” or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380.

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 news releases, audio and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website www.puc.pa.gov.

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Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov