Press Release

The Robot Knows How to Shop for an Electric Supplier. Do You?

    NEW CASTLE, Pa. - You’ve heard of ET. Meet EC - a unique and exciting educational ambassador presented by the Pennsylvania Electric Choice Program. EC, the Electric Choice robot, travels throughout Pennsylvania providing important consumer information about the opportunity to choose an electric supplier and he teaches consumers how to shop in the newly deregulated electric marketplace.

    EC will make a first-ever appearance at the New Castle Fireworks Festival on Saturday, July 10. EC will meet and greet festival guests from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Chamber of Commerce building located at 138 West Washington Street.

    EC is a 6-foot, 400-pound robot with full arm and head motion capability. He utilizes the newest technologies including a miniaturized microprocessor controlled guidance system that allows him to move freely. When he speaks, his voice is amplified and synthesized for a realistic robot delivery.

    "I am looking forward to adding to the excitement of the fireworks festival with my ‘electrifying’ information for consumers about the Electric Choice Program," said EC. "With the summer months increasing the demand for air conditioning and electricity usage, now is a prime time for consumers to pay attention to the benefits of shopping for an electric supplier."

    By learning how to shop and evaluating offers from electricity suppliers, consumers may be able to save money on their electric bills.

    "The sooner consumers learn how to shop in the new electric marketplace, the better their chances to reap the benefits of the program," said Joe Hrach, president of Penn Power. Penn Power is one of the local sponsors of Fireworks Festival ‘99.

    Gov. Tom Ridge proclaimed June Electric Choice Month, calling on all citizens to recognize the benefits of electric choice and educate themselves on the consumer issues and options regarding the selection of an electric generation company. Approximately 450,000 customers have already taken advantage of Electric Choice by choosing an alternative generation supplier.

    For more information about the Electric Choice Program, contact 1-888-PUC-FACT (782-3228) or visit the program’s website at www.electrichoice.com.