The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) recognized the 10th year of its Prepare Now campaign by joining together with other state agencies at the Community Action Commission, Harrisburg, during a media and consumer event held on Novmber 28.

In addition to educating consumers about the availability of programs to assist them with utility bills, another equally important part of the Prepare Now campaign is an effort to focus on increasing customer awareness of increased heating costs, exploring ways to reduce energy usage and increasing awareness for safe home heating,” said PUC Chairman Robert F. Powelson during video remarks from the event.

The PUC joined representatives from the state’s Department of Public Welfare (DPW) and the state’s Office of Consumer Advocate to increase 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.

“We are aware that it is increasingly difficult for many Pennsylvania households to make ends meet. As a result, many are struggling to make utility payments and may be facing the winter months without safe and adequate heat. We urge consumers to contact their utility and participate in programs designed to help reduce energy usage and to offer payment assistance,” said Tanya McCloskey, Acting Consumer Advocate.

A representative with the DPW spoke about the benefits of low-income grants. “The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as LIHEAP, helps low-income families pay their heating bills,” said Ed Zogby, Director of Policy with the DPW. “LIHEAP is a grant that offers assistance in the form of a cash grant, sent directly to the utility company, or a crisis grant for households in immediate danger of being without heat.”

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 were asked to inform the PUC of any of the suggested actions they implement. The companies’ responses are available on the PUC website.

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 www.puc.pa.gov and click on "Prepare Now" or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380.