Utility Files Complaint at PUC Over Retail Suppliers' Alleged Market Practices

Unitil filed a complaint at the New Hampshire PUC requesting that the Commission review the door-to-door marketing practices of Clearview Electric, Inc.

"Clearview began marketing its services to customers in Unitil’s service territory less than a month ago, and Unitil is already fielding complaints and customer calls expressing concerns about Clearview’s marketing practices. These complaints appear to be consistent with those received by regulators in other jurisdictions in which Clearview operates," Unitil alleged

"Unitil requests that the Commission review Clearview’s marketing practices, order Clearview to cease engaging in any improper marketing practices and, if necessary, sanction Clearview if it is found to have violated any state law or Commission rule," Unitil said

Among other things, Unitil alleged, "A customer reported that she was solicited by a Clearview representative who wore a shirt that said 'Unitil' and indicated that he was from Unitil. Upon further questioning, the Clearview representative allegedly indicated that his Unitil truck was parked down the street."

Unitil also alleged, "On October 8, another customer complained that a Clearview representative came to his home wearing a Unitil badge and carrying a clipboard with a Unitil electric bill on it. The representative reportedly introduced himself as being from Unitil and stated that Unitil did not want to lose him as a customer and would continue to serve him, but that he could save money by enrolling with Clearview."

"Furthermore, Unitil has discovered that as of this [October 25, 2016] filing, Clearview's website (www.clearviewenergy.com) incorrectly states that Unitil's 'Current Standard Electric Offer' is 9.41 cents per kWh. This was Unitil's default service rate for residential customers for the winter 2015-2016 period beginning December 1, 2015 and ending May 31, 2016. The Company's current residential rate, effective through November 30, 2016, is 5.978 cents per kWh, and the Company's winter 2016-2017 rate, which will be effective November 30, 2016 - May 31, 2017, is 7.69 cents per kWh," Unitil alleged

Clearview Energy provided the following statement to EnergyChoiceMatters.com:

"As one of the largest renewable energy suppliers in the United States, Clearview Energy has a long-standing reputation for putting our customers first. Not only is our goal to provide value, but to ensure a positive customer experience. Having an A rating with the Better Business Bureau, along with an impressive .37% complaint-to-active-sales ratio in Unitil, Clearview Energy strives to ensure that all aspects of the consumer experience is seamless and that we are responsive to any concerns brought to our attention. Moreover, Clearview Energy has a zero-tolerance policy against high-pressure sales tactics and misrepresentation.

"In support of the Clearview Energy brand promise to provide choice without compromise, our field representatives adhere to a strict dress code the company has established in accordance with the guiding principles of trust, confidence, and safety. Representatives wear a standard uniform that clearly distinguishes them as a Clearview Energy representative, including:

• Clearview Energy insignia

• A Clearview Energy team badge

• A Clearview Energy Polo

• A Clearview Energy Jacket

"Bottom line - customer care is Clearview Energy’s highest priority. Our commitment to providing choice without compromise - service with integrity, excellence, and accountability - is unparalleled. We know consumers have a choice in the energy marketplace, and we are proud they continue to choose us."

Click here for a larger example of the Clearview standard uniform referenced in Clearview's statement (also embedded below)