Press Release

PUC: Help Make Martin Luther King Day, Jan. 19, a ‘Day of Utility Service’

Published on 1/16/2015

Filed under: Electric Gas Water and Wastewater Telecommunications

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today reminded Pennsylvania utility customers to make Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Jan. 19, 2015, a “Day of Utility Service,” as well as a “Day of Service,” by helping people in their community to save energy and “Prepare Now” for winter heating bills.

“During your day of service, check with your neighbors, family members, at your church, see if they are working with the right kind of bulbs that are energy efficient and especially, check on elderly neighbors and make sure that they’re working with the correct heating source that is safe,” said PUC Commissioner Gladys M. Brown in a video news release.

It’s never too late to help a neighbor in need prepare for winter and higher heating bills. Learn ways to reduce energy and water usage in the new year. Encourage others on limited incomes to contact their local utility about programs that can help pay bills or weatherize homes. Help others to “Prepare Now” by sharing tips on energy efficiency, conservation and weatherization.  Also, learn more about safe home heating and make sure your neighbor is using a safe heating source to stay warm this winter.

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

Since October, the PUC has been reminding consumers to “Prepare Now” for high energy costs this winter. The PUC’s message is simple: Prepare Now for winter energy costs. 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 www.puc.pa.gov and click on "Prepare Now" or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380. #PrepareNow

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility. “Like” PAPowerSwitch on Facebook for easy access to information on electric shopping.

Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov