Former power providers face hefty fines
TEXAS - Two former electric providers face nearly $3.7 million in penalties for not properly advising Texas regulators that they were ceasing operations in 2008.
The Public Utility Commission approved enforcement orders against National Power Co. Inc. of Houston and Pre-Buy Electric LLC of Grapevine.
National Power must pay a $1.8 million fine. Pre-Buy Electric was ordered to pay almost $1.9 million. Both also must refund all customers deposits and prepayments.
The commission approved a preliminary order against HWY 3 MHOP also known as eTricity, of Denton, with a recommended penalty topping $1.4 million.
The company is accused of failing to notify regulators and customers of its intent to cease operations.
Related News
Its Electric Grid Under Strain, California Turns to Batteries
LOS ANGELES - Last month as a heat wave slammed California, state regulators sent an email to a group of energy executives pleading for help. “Please consider this an urgent inquiry on behalf of the state,” the message said.
The manager of the state’s grid was struggling to increase the supply of electricity because power plants had unexpectedly shut down and demand was surging. The imbalance was forcing officials to order rolling blackouts across the state for the first time in nearly two decades.
What was unusual about the emails was whom they were sent to: people who managed thousands of batteries…
