HARRISBURG, Pa. (Legal Newsline) - Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane cautioned Wednesday about overly aggressive and dishonest sales pitches from electricity providers in multiple Pennsylvania communities.
Kane, Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission Chairman Robert Powelson and the Office of Consumer Advocate issued the warning for state residents to be diligent when weighing electricity provider options from telephone solicitors and door-to-door salesmen.
"In some recent incidents, sales people have been pushing consumers into choosing high-cost electric generation services," Kane said. "We encourage consumers to make sure they have carefully weighed the offer, and that they are dealing with legitimate energy suppliers before sharing account information and agreeing to switch providers."
Consumers may file a complaint with the PUC or Kane's office if they encounter aggressive solicitation. Consumers should immediately call the police if they feel their safety is threatened.
Kane said shopping and choosing wisely in regards to the best energy rate can lead to savings if dealing with legitimate vendors.
Powelson encouraged customers to shop for electricity providers while making sure that new written contracts are consistent with the terms and conditions discussed with the salesperson. When consumers are uncomfortable with a sales pitch, they should file a complaint with his office.
Since 1997, Pennsylvanians have been able to select their electricity provider. Local electric distribution companies continue to operate the lines providing electricity to homes, but consumers may choose the company that sells the electric power or generation delivered to the distribution lines.
Pa. AG warns consumers about high-pressure sales schemes
