Direct Energy about to be fined by the Public Utility Commission of Texas.
The British-owned energy retailer Direct Energy faces a fine from the Public Utility Commission of Texas. A $220,000 penalty against Direct Energy is proposed for illegally de-energizing customers in February 2014 during a bout of extreme weather.
The company attempted to disconnect 252 customers for non-payment.
However, Texas law prohibits disconnections by Retail Electricity Providers due to outstanding bills “during an extreme weather emergency.”
Direct Energy spokeswoman Jessica Michan was quoted as saying their actions were caused by “an administrative error” and “Direct Energy regrets this incident.”
The petition was filed by Texas Ratepayers’ Organization to Save Energy (Texas ROSE). Carol Biedrzycki, Executive Director of that organization said “I do consider this a win.”
The PUC has scheduled to decide on this proposed fine at the July 30 meeting.
