PUC Urges Electric, Natural Gas Utilities To Help Consumers Prepare Now For Heating Season

The Public Utility Commission this week urged electric and natural gas utilities to take extra steps to help consumers “Prepare Now” for winter heating costs.

A letter, which was signed by all five PUC Commissioners, was sent to electric and natural gas utilities under the PUC’s jurisdiction asking the utilities to join the PUC in reaching out and educating consumers. The letter contained specific suggestions as to how the utilities can help.

The utilities are asked to inform PUC Chairman James H. Cawley of any of the suggested actions they implement.

The Commission’s focus for the seventh year of its “Prepare Now” outreach campaign is increasing consumer awareness on rising energy prices; exploring ways to reduce energy usage; educating consumers about the availability of low-income programs; and increasing awareness for safe home heating.

“Winter months and winter heating bills are approaching,” the letter said. “As a result of the nation’s economic status, we are entering the winter months with natural gas prices significantly lower than last year. However, the economic conditions continue to put many families in difficult financial positions. The lower natural gas prices provide little comfort for struggling families who are facing the routine costs of winter energy bills.”

The letter encourages consumers on limited or fixed incomes to call their utility about programs to help heat their homes or pay their energy bills such as Customer Assistance Programs and Low Income Usage Reduction Programs.

It also appeals to the companies to increase efforts to educate consumers with limited or fixed incomes about special programs such as Customer Assistance Programs and Low Income Usage Reduction Programs, which assist consumers in paying their energy bills and controlling their energy usage.

The PUC’s message is simple: “Prepare Now” for higher energy costs this winter. Learn about changes in the law related to utility shut-offs and know your rights. Save money by learning how to conserve energy. Heat your home safely. Explore budget billing options. Look into programs that help low-income customers restore and maintain service.

Visit the PUC's Prepare Now webpage or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380.