I've got a client in Portland who signed up for PGE's Green Future Impact renewable energy program while also having a competitive electricity supplier. Now they're getting charged for renewable energy credits by both PGE and their supplier. The monthly overcharge is about $3,200 and it's been going on for 8 months. PGE claims the green tariff is separate from supply but I think that's BS. Anyone dealt with similar renewable energy double-billing issues?
Portland General Electric green tariff double billing nightmare
Craig, this is becoming more common as utilities push green programs. The key question is whether the renewable energy credits are bundled with supply or delivery. If your client's competitive supplier is already providing RECs, then PGE shouldn't be charging for additional ones. You'll need to review both contracts carefully to determine if there's actual double-billing occurring.
I've seen this exact issue with Eversource's green programs here in Connecticut. The utilities are using environmental programs as a way to claw back revenue from shopping customers. Make sure you understand exactly what RECs each party is supposed to provide under the contracts.
This reminds me of issues we had in Alaska with renewable portfolio standard compliance. Some utilities try to charge all customers for RPS compliance even if their competitive supplier is already meeting those requirements. File a complaint with the Oregon PUC - they've been pretty good about protecting shopping customers from these kinds of charges.
Thanks for the input everyone. I reviewed both contracts and you're right - the competitive supplier is already providing RECs to meet Oregon's renewable portfolio standard. PGE's Green Future program is essentially selling additional RECs on top of what's already required. The client thought they needed both programs but they don't. Working on getting the PGE program cancelled and recovering the $25,600 in duplicate charges.
Excellent detective work Craig! These green energy programs can be very confusing for customers. The marketing makes it sound like you need to sign up for additional renewable energy even if your supplier is already providing it. This is exactly why customers need professional bill auditing in deregulated markets.
Great outcome! I'm seeing more of these environmental program conflicts here in Arizona too. The utilities are getting creative about revenue recovery from shopping customers. Always check if the competitive supplier is already providing whatever environmental attributes the utility is trying to sell separately.