Pa. Chair Powelson: AARP Being "Intellectually Dishonest", Using "Scare Tactics"

Pennsylvania PUC Chairman Robert Powelson used a keynote address at the National Energy Marketers Association fall leadership roundtable to "call out" AARP for what he called "intellectually dishonest" scare tactics.

Referencing AARP statements in media coverage of SB 1121, a bill which would auction non-shopping customers to retail electric suppliers and end utility-offered default service, Powelson's message to AARP was, "Stop being intellectually dishonest and using scare tactics against seniors."

Powelson said that the PUC has safeguards in place such that AARP's members can shop for a competitive supplier and have peace of mind that when they enter into a contract with an EGS, behind that contractual relationship is the "full faith and credit" of the Public Utility Commission.

Powelson called it startling that AARP is content to endorse other service providers, such as specific Medicare supplement plans, prescription drug plans, and life insurance plans, but AARP has not worked with a retail energy supplier to develop a superior retail electric offer for AARP's members, one which would address any concerns of the organization.

Powelson contrasted AARP's inaction to local chambers of commerce and other trade and community organizations which have actively leveraged their weight to negotiate superior terms with retail suppliers for their members.

This criticism of AARP has been levied multiple times by Commissioners of the Public Utility Commission of Texas.

As to SB 1121, Powelson said that he was not at NEM to endorse any specific legislation, but did say that the PUC recognizes that the status quo is not viable, and that changes need to be made to the market.