Press Release

PUC Reminds Consumers that Commission Does Not Solicit Door to Door, Urges Residents to be Cautious of Scams

Published on 7/11/2014

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today reminds Pennsylvania residents to be wary of door-to-door solicitors, noting that PUC personnel will never go door to door to target customers.

“If a person comes to your door and says he or she works for the PUC, that’s an immediate red flag,” said PUC Chairman Robert F. Powelson. “PUC employees will never cold call or come to your door, and they will never ask to see your electric meter or your utility bill. If a person comes to your door making that claim, you should immediately call the PUC and/or local authorities to report the incident.”

Since this winter’s polar vortex and the significant electric generation price increases that resulted, some Pennsylvania residents have seen an increase in the number of door-to-door and telemarketing sales pitches from competitive electric suppliers. Additionally, some residents have been visited by solicitors posing as PUC personnel, requesting access to their electric meter and/or electric bill and offering an opportunity to save money.

“We want every consumer to have a positive shopping experience. We at the PUC will not pursue customers for information, and we encourage shoppers to carefully weigh offers from an electric generation supplier, ensuring they are legitimate before sharing any personal or account information,” Chairman Powelson said. “When in doubt about an offer, turn away the solicitor and call the PUC to confirm the supplier information.”

Residents who receive a visit of the aforementioned nature should file an informal complaint with the PUC’s Bureau of Consumer Services at 1-800-692-7380. If consumers feel their safety is threatened, they should immediately call their local police.

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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Contact:

• Deputy Press Secretary
  717-787-5722