Despite rebounding temperatures, Old Man Winter is right around the corner so the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today reminded electric and natural gas utilities to take extra steps to help consumers – especially those on limited and fixed incomes – “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 eighth 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.

“Winter months and winter heating bills are approaching,” the letter said. “As a result of the nation’s economic status, we are entering the winter months with low natural gas prices, but rate caps expiring for a majority of electric customers. The economic conditions continue to put many families in difficult financial positions. Many families are struggling as they face the routine costs of winter energy bills.”

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 (CAPs) and Low Income Usage Reduction Programs (LIURP). It also appeals to the companies to increase efforts to educate consumers with limited or fixed incomes about special programs such as Customer Assistance Programs (CAPs) and Low Income Usage Reduction Programs (LIURP), which assist consumers in paying their energy bills and controlling their energy usage.

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.state.pa.us and click on "Prepare Now" or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380. The PUC also is actively participating in Gov. Rendell’s third annual Stay Warm PA campaign – “Turn Down. Seal Off. Save Up.” Visit www.turnsealsave.org for more information.

The PUC has 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.