The Office of the People’s Counsel for the District of Columbia (OPC) has learned of reports of individuals posing as utility company or DC government employees calling or visiting homes and businesses and scamming consumers out of thousands of dollars. Reportedly, the scammers say you owe money on a utility bill or you have received a grant.
If you are aware of questionable practices, especially those perpetrated by a third party energy supplier (TPS), or suspect you have been scammed, call OPC at (202) 727-3071 and we will investigate.
Following reports in May that a TPS was using bait and switch tactics to get customers, People's Counsel Sandra Mattavous-Frye offered advice in an interview with WJLA ABC 7 News.
Here are some tips to protect your household or business.
Ask the representative to provide a photo ID. The ID MUST display a company logo.
Unless there is a public safety emergency, utility companies rarely visit your home or stop you on the street.
NEVER give out personal or account information such as your social security number, utility account number or credit card number.
If threatened with disconnection if you do not make a payment, check the balance on your latest bill and call the customer service number listed to verify your service status. Utilities will notify you multiple times in advance if you are about to be disconnected.
NEVER agree to make a payment using a pre-paid debit at a convenience store.
DO NOT be pressured to sign up for a limited time or promotional offer.
Ask for any offer in writing.
BEFORE switching to a third party energy supplier, take the time to carefully review the details of a contract before signing. Consider whether your household will save energy and money on utility bills with a TPS.
About Third Party Suppliers
Third Party Suppliers are authorized by the DC Public Service Commission (PSC) to sell alternative energy resources such as energy generated by solar, wind, or water. Their prices are not regulated by the PSC and may be higher than Pepco or Washington Gas rates. The energy is still delivered through the local utilities, and you would contact them for service issues.
How do you know if you are enrolled with a TPS?
Listed on your Pepco bill are Electricity Supplier Charges and on your Washington Gas bill are Gas Supplier Charges. If you see a company’s name other than Pepco or Washington Gas listed as the supplier, then you may be enrolled with a TPS company.
Marketing materials must clearly show a PSC license number. If no number is shown, the company might not be authorized to operate in the District.
If you are concerned about questionable tactics, call OPC at (202) 727-3071. You also can file a complaint on this link.
