Utility

Utility Provider Settles Call Recording Lawsuit for $3.7 Million

Tiger Natural Gas, Inc. recently settled a class action privacy suit alleging that it illegally recorded sales calls with over 27,000 potential customers. Although Tiger hired a third party to handle its telemarketing, Tiger will pay $3.7 million on the claims as the advertiser with ultimate liability for non-compliance. According to the plaintiffs, neither company told …


Federal Judge Dismisses Des Moines Water Works’ Lawsuit

A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Des Moines Water Works against several upstream agriculture drainage districts, dismissing the utility’s claims and stating that the Iowa Legislature is the appropriate body to address the state’s water quality crisis. Bill Stowe, chief executive officer and general manager of Des Moines Water Works, told KCCI on Friday evening that he’s …


ComEd, Nicor Improperly Adding Interest, Fees to Medical Hardship Repayment Plans

A new class action lawsuit has charged two of the Chicago area’s largest utility companies with improperly adding finance charges and late fees to so-called “medical payment arrangements” – or special electric and natural gas bill repayment plans required by the state, should utility customers suffer significant health problems interfering with their ability to pay their bills on time. On Dec. …


Residents Anticipate Refunds From Franchise Fee Settlement

Des Moines’ franchise fee debate is close to its conclusion after nearly a decade, but Des Moines residents are still waiting for refunds from the franchise fee settlement. Get breaking news and weather alerts anywhere you go with the free KCCI 8 News App. Those who paid a utility bill in the city between 2004 and 2009 may quality.


L.A. City Council Grants Preliminary Approval to DWP’s Rate Hike

After months of discussions, meetings and revisions, the Los Angeles City Council on Wednesday gave preliminary approval to the first increase in water and power base rates in years. With a 12-2 vote, the council gave its go-ahead to the Department of Water and Power’s proposal to boost water rates 4.7% and power rates 3.86% each year for five years. The DWP estimates that customers who use …