Legislation would allow customers to easily switch utilities providers

The state Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee was recently referred legislation that would improve access for energy customers to switch electricity and natural gas suppliers.

Senate Bill 277 would allow customers to switch energy or gas providers by providing a government-issued ID or their account number. Under current law, consumers need an account number to switch.

The bill also would require retail electric and natural gas suppliers and representatives selling their products to become certified through an educational course in sales and consumer protection of electric and natural gas products.

The Public Utility Commission would issue certifications to individuals. A certificate would be required before anyone sells products to consumers.

“This legislation will make energy shopping easier for consumers and will hold energy suppliers accountable for marketing practices,” state Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York), who introduced the bill, said. “This bill will help continue to improve the energy choice marketplace, which has been around for a quarter of a century, by enhancing the entire process for customers researching their options.”

Suppliers would pay for the cost to implement and administer the exam through their licensing fee.

Utilities would be required to break out the costs associated with serving as a supplier and distributor.