Press Release

PUC Seeks Additional Information Before Acting on Settlement with ResCom Over Electric Marketing Practices

Published on 3/6/2014

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – Citing a need for additional information, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today declined to take action on a settlement between its independent Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement (I&E) and ResCom Energy, a PUC-licensed electric generation supplier.

“In addition to agreeing to pay a $59,000 civil penalty, the Settlement notes that ResCom took certain corrective actions designed to avoid similar violations in the future,” said PUC Chairman Robert F. Powelson and Commissioner Pamela A. Witmer in a motion.  “We do not feel, however, that the Commission has enough information to evaluate whether the civil penalty and corrective actions are sufficient to address the alleged violations.”

The Commission voted 5-0 to return the settlement to the parties and request additional information. I&E and the company are requested to provide supplemental information addressing remedial actions to safeguard against slamming, marketing practices, Do Not Call violations and total number of customers affected.

The proposed settlement, which was filed Dec. 2, 2013, followed an information investigation where I&E alleged the company violated Commission regulations on changing a customer’s electric generation supplier without permission; engaging in deceptive marketing and complying with the state and federal Do Not Call provisions. In the proposed settlement, the company admits no wrongdoing and agreed to remedial actions as well as a $59,000 civil penalty.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility.  “Like” PAPowerSwitch on Facebook for easy access to information on electric shopping.

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Docket No. M-2013-2320112

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