Wednesday, April 23, 2003

PSC advises gas consumers to read fine print

One of the desired outcomes from deregulation of the natural gas industry was to provide consumers with a wide array of choices - in service providers and services offered.

The Georgia Public Service Commission cautions consumers to "read the fine print" in materials they receive that have the potential to impact their natural gas services.

Before deciding whether to enroll in a new offering that may be presented by a natural gas marketer, carefully consider the impact on your yearly costs.

Analyzing your bills over a longer period of time is usually a better gauge for comparison.

If an offering has a higher customer service charge, ask the marketer what additional services will be provided.

If you're going to get the same level of customer service, then you must decide whether it is really in your best interest to enroll in a program that has a higher customer service charge? What fees are you expected to pay if you make future changes? Also, ask about early termination fees.

The deregulated natural gas industry is not "one size fits all."

Therefore, consumers must decide what is important to them. Is it a lower rate (cents-per-therm), excellent customer service, the ability to speak directly with marketer personnel or interact with a voice response unit?

There are other considerations consumers must take into account. In any event, education is the key to any decision you make to insure that you get the best value for your dollar.

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