Press Release

PUC to Consumers: ‘Prepare Now’ for Winter Energy Costs

Published on 10/16/2014

Filed under: Electric Gas Water and Wastewater Telecommunications Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG  – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today launched its annual campaign reminding consumers to “Prepare Now” for winter energy costs.

“Our Prepare Now campaign reminds consumers all season long that winter temperatures come with increased electric and natural gas use and higher household bills,” said PUC Chairman Robert F. Powelson. “Now is the time to take steps around the house to reduce your winter energy bills. Step one is to check your electric and natural gas supplier contracts now so you can lock in the lowest possible price for winter. Step two is conservation.”

In its 12^th year, the Prepare Now campaign provides consumers with simple tips to lower their energy bills, including shopping for electricity and natural gas, as well as tips to conserve energy around the house. It also offers information about low-income programs that help consumers restore and maintain service.

The year’s theme is no different:

Prepare Now for winter energy costs. Learn more about conservation. Check your electric and natural gas bills and supplier contracts. Use PAPowerSwitch.com to shop for service. Look into programs that help low-income customers maintain service. Visit www.puc.pa.gov and click on "Prepare Now" or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380. #PrepareNow

The PUC is committed to helping customers minimize their bills while making the most out of every dollar they spend on energy. Even small changes around the home can save money on winter energy costs. Useful tips to help consumers cut usage can be found on the PUC’s website under Prepare Now.

“We encourage customers to take a few minutes to check their electric and natural gas bills and contracts with competitive suppliers and review the conservation tips,” Chairman Powelson said. “What you’ll find is that saving on your winter energy costs can be comfortable, convenient and easy.”

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:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722