I suspect that they can do whatever they want with their 'budget billing' program but if you wanted to file a complaint with the Public Utilities Commission in your state, they might be able to pressure them to return to a more traditional budget billing model. I suspect they were having trouble with people settling up big bills (like if someone moved at the height of the cold months) and decided they were risking too much by floating big winter utility bills but I totally agree it is not in the spirit of what is intended/expected. You'll probably have to 'do-it-yourself' by stashing the avg amount during warmer months to make up the difference.
I suspect that they can do whatever they want with their 'budget billing' program but if you wanted to file a complaint with the Public Utilities Commission in your state, they might be able to pressure them to return to a more traditional budget billing model. I suspect they were having trouble with people settling up big bills (like if someone moved at the height of the cold months) and decided they were risking too much by floating big winter utility bills but I totally agree it is not in the spirit of what is intended/expected. You'll probably have to 'do-it-yourself' by stashing the avg amount during warmer months to make up the difference.
Peg
That stinks.
Norma
"Patience is the best remedy for every trouble"- Plautus
I would definately report it to the Public Utilities Commission in your state.