Md. PSC Staff Seek Show Cause Order Against Viridian Energy, $50,000 Fine

Staff of the Maryland Public Service Commission have filed a complaint against Viridian Energy PA, LLC and requested that the Commission issue an order directing Viridian to show cause why its electric supplier license should not be suspended or revoked, or, alternatively, why Viridian should not be subject to a civil penalty of up to $50,000 and/or precluded from soliciting additional customers

Staff alleged that, "Viridian uses misleading and deceptive practices in presenting its relationship with the utility to the public."

Attaching two pieces of marketing material to its complaint, Staff alleged that, "Viridian indicates through advertising that it is partners with Baltimore Gas and Electric Company ('BGE') as if the utility were an active partner in Viridian's sales efforts."

"In addition, although Viridian states on its website that its price is not always lower than the utility, its written advertisements indicate a savings of 16.8 percent and 20 percent," Staff alleged.

Staff further alleged that Viridian is not in compliance with the minimum contracting requirements of COMAR 20.53.07.08, as Staff alleged that Viridian claims that no contract is required.