Press Release

PUC to Host ‘Be Utility Wise’ Event in Laurel Highlands to Train the Trainer on Consumer Assistance, ‘Prepare Now’ for Winter Energy Costs

Published on 10/23/2014

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

JOHNSTOWN – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) will host its second annual “Be Utility Wise” program of the Laurel Highlands, “Connecting Resources to Educate and Serve the Community,” from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31, 2014, at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown.

 “As we have learned in winters past, it’s critical that we educate consumers and equip them with both resources and knowledge to help them ‘Prepare Now’ for winter, both physically and monetarily,” said PUC Chairman Robert F. Powelson. “In order to do this, we must first educate our industry workers who are on the front lines and working with consumers every day. The last thing we want is for families to struggle to heat their homes and pay their utility bills this winter.”

In addition to networking opportunities, the event will feature presentations from state agencies, local utility companies and other financial assistance programs in order to share ideas and services. Presenters will discuss the process of shopping for an electric supplier, financial assistance and energy efficiency programs for utility customers, weatherization and conservation, safe heating tips, 211 and the Get Connected website and more.

This year’s participants and supporters include the PUC, the Department of Public Welfare, Community Action, United Way of the Laurel Highlands, Catholic Charities, Peoples Natural Gas, Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania and Penelec.

The Laurel Highlands Be Utility Wise event is one of five of its kind occurring in the Commonwealth this fall. Other event locations include Pittsburgh, Wilkes Barre, Berks County and Harrisburg.

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 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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