As the Public Utility Commission marks the 11th year of its “Prepare Now” initiative, today it reminded electric and natural gas utilities to take extra steps to help consumers – especially those on limited and fixed incomes, to “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, especially those on limited and fixed incomes.

The letter contained specific suggestions as to how the utilities can help. The utilities are asked to inform the PUC of any of the suggested actions they implement.

The Commission’s focus for the 11th 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.

“While Pennsylvania has experienced relatively mild winters the last few years, early predictions are calling for this winter to be colder than normal. At the same time, many families are not prepared to handle the costs of winter energy bills,” the Commission wrote.

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 CAPS, LIURP and budget billing, which assist consumers in paying their energy bills and controlling their energy usage, and at the same time, reminds them of the provisions under Chapter 56 of the Public Utility Code that impose an obligation of good faith, honesty and fair dealing in its performance and enforcement.

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

The PUC employs consumer outreach specialists who provide utility education and assistance to consumers. This team of consumer education specialists reaches out to consumers by traveling throughout the state conducting or participating in workshop events, free seminars, roundtable discussions and community fairs.

During those events, plain language materials and literature designed to educate consumers about assistance programs and their rights are handed out. Materials include information on consumer rights in dealing with terminations and reconnections, available low-income programs and tips on how to “Prepare Now” for winter.

For more information on hosting a PUC consumer outreach specialist at a community event, please call 717-787-5722.

NewsClip: PUC: Prepare Now For Winter Heating Season

10/21/2013