New Illinois rules aim to protect customers of alternative energy suppliers
Add competition while keeping a monopoly…of course there is confusion. Utility regulators initially wanted competition and now appear to see competition as deceptive. Instead of pushing energy marketers and utilities to clearly adopt “customer choice” as a clear alternative, the regulators are focusing on energy marketing sales practices. Competitive energy markets are not new, nor is buying things. So, why the confusion with energy sales?
Comparisons
Most regulators think it’s about the rate, however, the true answer is: it’s NOT. Low rates and saving money should be the driver, but like anything else you buy, quality (in energy’s case terms and conditions) is an important consideration. Comparing the price of energy without looking at the quality issues will always invite confusion.
Fair dealing; do not lie, do not mislead, and do not commit fraud
Consumers have strong consumer protection laws. Utilities have complaint departments as do all energy marketers, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) can remove energy marketers, the Illinois Attorney General’s (IAG) office can seek restitution, and the Illinois State Attorney can prosecute fraud. Energy marketers are required NOT to mislead or commit fraud.
Market competition
No system is more ruthless in removing inefficiency, driving down costs, and providing service as competition. EVERYTHING to support true competition should be implemented. Realgy supports aggressive policing of energy marketers and has applauded the action of the ICC and IAG in these matters. In addition, allowing market competition to fully drive down and deliver energy is the real long term solution.
Realgy Energy Services is a registered Retail Energy Marketer in the states of Illinois, Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. We offer Service Plans that will provide electric and natural gas at wholesale pricing direct to customers without any utility markup. Our Service Plans work with the local utility to provide seamless service and annual energy savings. Service Plans include Guaranteed SavingsTM, ManagedPriceTM, ManagedGreenTM Index, Fixed and PriceAssuranceTM.
Additional Information: