The Public Utility Commission Thursday launched its annual campaign reminding consumers to “Prepare Now” for winter energy costs.

The PUC Friday also announced it will host its second annual Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton "Be Utility Wise" event, “Connecting the Dots to Financial Stability,” from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. October 23 at Mohegan Sun Convention Center.

“As we have learned in winters past, it’s critical that we educate consumers and equip them with both resources and knowledge to help them ‘Prepare Now’ for winter, both physically and monetarily,” said PUC Chairman Robert F. Powelson. “In order to do this, we must first educate our industry workers who are on the front lines and working with consumers every day. The last thing we want is for families to struggle to heat their homes and pay their utility bills this winter.”

“Our Prepare Now campaign reminds consumers all season long that winter temperatures come with increased electric and natural gas use and higher household bills,” said PUC Chairman Robert F. Powelson. “Now is the time to take steps around the house to reduce your winter energy bills. Step one is to check your electric and natural gas supplier contracts now so you can lock in the lowest possible price for winter. Step two is conservation.”

In its 12th year, the Prepare Now campaign provides consumers with simple tips to lower their energy bills, including shopping for electricity and natural gas, as well as tips to conserve energy around the house. It also offers information about low-income programs that help consumers restore and maintain service.

The year’s theme is no different: Prepare Now for winter energy costs.

The PUC is committed to helping customers minimize their bills while making the most out of every dollar they spend on energy. Even small changes around the home can save money on winter energy costs. Useful tips to help consumers cut usage can be found on the PUC’s website under Prepare Now.

“We encourage customers to take a few minutes to check their electric and natural gas bills and contracts with competitive suppliers and review the conservation tips,” Chairman Powelson said. “What you’ll find is that saving on your winter energy costs can be comfortable, convenient and easy.”

Learn more about conservation. Check your electric and natural gas bills and supplier contracts. Use PAPowerSwitch.com to shop for service. Look into programs that help low-income customers maintain service.

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

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10/20/2014