Energy required to Comparison-shop
Friday, November 26, 2004
Ever wonder whether you'd get a better deal on your electric bill if you switched to one of the independent energy suppliers that compete with Niagara Mohawk?
On Monday, the state Public Service Commission began publishing an online guide intended to help consumers compare prices. It's a great idea; most folks haven't the slightest notion of how to comparison-shop for electric power.
Trouble is, the guide - accessible through www.AskPSC.com - doesn't tell a whole lot about the prices offered by most of the utility's competitors. Only two companies' estimated monthly residential bills are listed: Niagara Mohawk's bill of $66.51 and Pro-Energy's bill of $62.78. Seven other suppliers declined to estimate bills for the PSC.
Most energy suppliers did promise modest savings in general terms and included other service information. Some companies refused to provide even that much and were not listed in the guide at all. The PSC cautioned consumers, too, that companies gave information voluntarily; the PSC does not guarantee its validity.
The agency hopes that if the guide becomes more popular with consumers, the energy suppliers might provide more information. But that's wishful thinking that doesn't guarantee consumers will be able to make informed choices.
The PSC oversees the activities of power producers big and small throughout New York. It requires them to submit all kinds of detailed data to protect ratepayers. It should require them to submit monthly bill estimates, as well. What good is a price guide without prices?
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