Citing Customer Concerns Received By Utility, PUC Staff Directs Retail Supplier To Submit Information on Marketing Campaign

The Maine PUC Staff has directed Clearview Energy to submit certain information related to a door-to-door marketing campaign, citing customer concerns received by Central Maine Power regarding the campaign.

"Central Maine Power (CMP) has notified the Commission that a number of its customers have contacted CMP with concerns related to marketing efforts by agents of Clearview. Specifically, recent door-to-door marketing and enrollment efforts by Clearview agents raise concerns relating to allegations of: (1) Clearview employees or agents misrepresenting themselves as representatives of a transmission and distribution (T&D) utility; (2) misrepresentations about how Clearview's prices compare to standard offer service prices and other misinformation regarding prospective T&D and/or supply price changes or expiration of service; and (3) instances where the agents act aggressively towards individuals," the PUC Staff said.

"To evaluate whether these concerns are warranted and require Commission action," Staff asked Clearview to answer a series of questions about the campaign and asked that Clearview submit various marketing materials used in the campaign

Among other things, Staff asked, "Has Clearview received reports that its Maine sales agents claimed to be representatives of a T&D utility by claiming to have a 'badge' from the local utility company? If so, what action if any was taken to correct this alleged violation of Chapter 305 of the Commission's rules? "

Clearview Energy provided the following statement to EnergyChoiceMatters.com:

"Clearview Energy was happy to comply with the MPUC request for information, with regard to our marketing practices in the state of Maine. The response will be a matter of public record. According to the facts received at this time, neither Clearview nor its representatives have been charged with any wrong-doing.

"Our association with Central Maine Power is a win-win for consumers. We look forward to working with them to continue delivering excellent service and innovative electricity options.

"Customer care is Clearview Energy's highest priority. Our commitment to providing service with integrity, excellence, and accountability is unparalleled. We know homeowners have a choice in the energy marketplace, and we are proud they continue to choose us. "