In my last column I expressed my opposition to the PUC’s application to recover smart meter costs from us through an increase in our delivery charges. Not surprisingly, Brian Curran, president and CEO of PUC, wasn’t a big fan of my column. Curran replied in a letter in which he let people know that smart electrical meters were mandated by …
We didn’t ask for smart meters, so why tap us for cash?
The PUC wants to increase delivery charges starting May 1, “to reflect the recovery of costs for deployed smart meters.” Did we ask for those meters? Are they of any benefit to us? No and no. Last Thursday’s paper had a very large ad: “Notice of application for an electricity distribution rate change – PUC Distribution Inc.” If approved, the …
Time-of-use electricity rates: More greenwashing or real conservation?
When the first brochures came out about time-of-use (TOU) billing rates, I was under the impression that somehow the change was going to benefit me as a consumer. I read the headings of the brochures sent with my electricity bill: “simple changes can bring real benefits” and “putting you in control” and “Choose your time. Manage your costs.” To me, …