MPSC Updates Consumer Tips Sheets on Natural Gas Choice

Contact:  Judy Palnau, 517-241-3323
Agency:  Michigan Public Service Commission

March 13, 2012- The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today issued two updated consumer tips sheets on natural gas choice.

"Interest in natural gas choice is high," noted MPSC Chairman John D. Quackenbush.  "So, it is important to get the facts before signing a contract with an alternative gas supplier (AGS).  The two consumer tips sheets updated today by the MPSC explain natural gas choice, encourage customers to get answers to questions they have, and encourage customers to take precautions when dealing with sales representatives."

In particular, customers should ask for identification from sales representatives, be mindful when allowing strangers into the home and not give out account information unless they intend to switch natural gas suppliers.  In addition, customers who sign up for natural gas choice over the telephone should be aware a third-party verification call needs to be completed and a copy of the contract must be sent to them within seven days.

The first consumer tip - Natural Gas Choice is Here: What to Know About Switching to An Alternative Gas Supplier - covers natural gas choice and provides a list of questions to help customers weigh their options.  A second consumer tip - Making an Informed Choice - provides a bill comparison between a full service utility customer and an AGS gas choice customer.

The MPSC is an agency within the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

For more information about LARA, please visit www.michigan.gov/lara.  Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/michiganLARA, "Like" us on Facebook or find us on YouTube www.youtube.com/michiganLARA.

 

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