A safety net intended to protect lower income residents of Pennsylvania is set to expire, but the PUC has reaffirmed their commitment to consumer protections.
Chapter 14 in Pennsylvania law prevents utility companies from turning off customers power during the winter months. A current law that will not change is preventing utilities being turned off the day before a holiday or on Fridays.
In response the PUC has released a new statement policy with approval 5-0 to help provide guidance.
“Maintaining these vital safeguards and our existing regulatory framework underscores our mission to ensure just and reasonable access to utility services,” said PUC Chairman Stephen M. DeFrank. “By taking this step, we are avoiding unnecessary disruptions and instead are fostering fair outcomes for consumers and utilities alike.”
The PUC did this in hopes of giving the state legislators time to reapprove Chapter 14 which officially expires at Dec. 31 2024.
