BC Hydro is warning its customers to be aware of a potential scam this winter season where telemarketers claim to be calling from BC Hydro to sell energy-saving devices called “Hydro Power Savers.” In some instances, telemarketers also incorrectly claim they are in possession of the customer’s power consumption information.
BC Hydro does not endorse “Hydro Power Savers” and has seen similar potential scams in other provinces, including Alberta. In addition, customers’ power consumption information is strictly confidential and is not shared with third parties.
As part of the calls, the alleged telemarketers are reportedly claiming that the “Hydro Power Savers” can save customers money on their bills. Customers who have been contacted by telemarketers about “Hydro Power Savers” are encouraged not to enter into any agreement for purchase.
The Better Business Bureau has included “power saving scams” as one of the Top Ten Scams for 2012. Customers who would like to file a complaint can visit the website of the Better Business Bureau serving Mainland British Columbia (BBB) at www.mbc.bbb.org or call the BBB at 604-682-2711,in the interior call, 1-888-803-1222, and on Vancouver Island, call 250-386-6348.
Report misleading advertising to the Competition Bureau website: competitionbureau.gc.ca.
BC Hydro has a lot of good information about how to reduce energy use around homes and businesses. Visit BC Hydro’s Power Smart website atwww.bchydro.com/powersmart or call customer service at 604-BC HYDRO (224-9376), or 1-800-BC HYDRO (224-9376).
