PUCT to Consider Heightened Verification of Power to Choose Listings

The PUCT needs to have a dedicated staffer who monitors Power to Choose and REPs' individual websites for compliance, particularly with respect to variable products, teaser rates, and variable rate histories, Commissioner Donna Nelson recommended during this morning's open meeting.

While Staff does currently review Power to Choose listings in addition to performing mystery shopper calls to verify product listings, Nelson recommended making this the responsibility of a specific position within the Commission.

Nelson's recommendation was prompted by continued frustration with the disclosure of variable rate histories, particularly for products with teaser rates, from some unidentified REPs. Commissioner Kenneth Anderson noted that there is at least one REP whose variable rate history lists only the teaser rates, but not the rates charged to customers no longer on the introductory promotion. Commissioners also discussed REPs' use of multiple variable rate products, which allows them to list different variable rate histories for each different product.

Commissioners agreed to discuss the issue after the close of the session, once it knows exactly what its responsibilities will be for the next two years, and whether any legislation related to Power to Choose is enacted.