Press Release

PUC Approves $59,000 Settlement with ResCom Energy Over Unauthorized Marketing Practices

Published on 11/13/2014

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a $59,000 settlement agreement with ResCom Energy, LLC (ResCom) over the company’s unauthorized marketing practices in 2012 and 2013.

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the settlement between ResCom and the Commission’s independent Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement (I&E). On June 19, 2014, the Commission issued for comments the proposed settlement agreement, and on July 8, 2014, both parties filed a Joint Supplemental Statement in support of the settlement agreement.

As part of the approved settlement, ResCom has indicated it has revised its operating procedures to safeguard against future unauthorized marketing practices. Revisions include:

• Better identification and script improvements; caller IDs and extended customer service hours; abiding by Do Not Call lists; and additional training resources for its field agents;
• Providing the Commission with written notification of changes in marketing activities for one year following the Commission’s final order; and
• Providing quarterly reports detailing consumer complaints and trends.

Informal investigations were instituted by I&E in September 2012 and July 2013 due to allegations of slamming, which is an unauthorized switch of a customer’s electric generation supplier, and other related unlawful marketing practices in Pennsylvania, including “Do Not Call” violations. Based on its investigations, I&E determined there was sufficient data to substantiate allegations of violations of the Public Utility Code, the Telemarketer Registration Act and Commission regulations.

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

Contact:

• Deputy Press Secretary
  717-787-5722