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bodhipooh t1_j3srcp8 wrote

Reply to comment by pixel_of_moral_decay in PSEG Bill Seems Really High by scrytruth

Personally, I think the program (as implemented) is somewhat predatory. They "estimate" how much electricity you have used (or, could use) over the previous year, then do the math of dividing by 12 and charge you that monthly, but I think what ends up happening is that people are deluded (intentionally, or through self delusion, or perhaps ignorance) into thinking they are now in some sort of flat fee contract. And, the end result is that they (predictably) use more energy on the regular because they are not aware of how much they are actually using because they pay the same amount every month, and then they get slammed with that true up bill at the end of the year. What SHOULD be happening is that PSEG should include some sort of clear and obvious comparison (and a warning, if warranted) about the actual vs estimated use for each monthly bill so people can then act or plan accordingly.

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Suspicious_Ad4829 t1_j3tab0z wrote

They do, it’s on the app. I use it and so far overpaid by 80 dollars so no surprise bill for me.

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pixel_of_moral_decay t1_j3te5yw wrote

On top of this. The whole point is to help people avoid cash flow issues. In the summer/winter energy usage is up, but rather than front the money it’s essentially an interest free loan to pay the diff over the cheaper spring/fall months when weather lowers your costs.

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Suspicious_Ad4829 t1_j3tfosj wrote

That’s how I use it, it helps to keep track of your usage and energy consumption. Live in jersey heights, in a very drafty 3k sq home w/ washer & dryer, spilt ac/ heat unit in each room and my bill was 290. High but not 470 for half the square footage, def look into it OP.

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bodhipooh t1_j3vvuch wrote

Yeah, I think too many people are truly unaware (ignorant?) about their overall energy usage. I hear horror stories of ~500 dollar bills and I can't wrap my mind around it. These friends I mentioned earlier had a bill of over 400 IN THE FALL before they decided to enroll in the EPP program. During the same month, our bill was ~70 for just about 20% less space. It just doesnt make sense to me.

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