Press Release

PUC Weighs $206,800 Settlement with PECO over Terminations, Directs Money to Approximately 2,000 Customers

Published on 2/14/2008

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today issued for public comment a settlement with PECO Energy Company after allegations that the company violated portions of the Public Utility Code and tariff.

“This Commission continues to monitor the actions of all utilities when it comes to the handling of consumer complaints and terminations and to hold companies accountable when they violate the Public Utility Code,” said Commission Chairman Wendell F. Holland.  “As we continue to monitor utility companies’ compliance to the rules and regulations, we encourage customers to call the PUC for help if they are not satisfied with how their complaint to a utility is being addressed.”

The Commission voted unanimously to issue for public comment the settlement that orders PECO to pay approximately $206,800 in civil penalties and refund payments.  Interested parties have 20 days from the entry of the Order to file comments.

Under the settlement, and in addition to the refunds PECO has already provided to customers who were charged a reconnection fee, PECO will provide the following refund payments:

• Each of the 1,239 customers who were terminated, but reinstated by May 5, 2007, a $60 credit toward their PECO utility bill;
• Each of the 567 customers terminated, but reinstated by May 18, 2007, a $100 credit toward their PECO utility bill; and
• Each of the 23 customers terminated, but reinstated after May 18, 2007, a $120 credit toward their PECO utility bill.

On June 20, 2007, the Commission’s Independent Prosecutory Staff initiated an informal investigation alleging that PECO failed to provide the required 72-hour advance notice of termination to approximately 2,000 accounts and failed to restore service within 24 hours to accounts that had been terminated in error.

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 of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us.

Docket No. M-00072051

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Contact:

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