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The energy industry is undergoing rapid change, and technology is paving the way for innovation in the way energy is used, produced, stored, and shared.

Consumers are interested in more green energy alternatives, and smart homes and apps make managing energy use and paying your electric bill more convenient than ever.

While the changing energy market has created more options for consumers, it has also resulted in more utility scams. Misleading information surrounds solar installations, in particular.

Utility scams are common because of the vast number of utilities that exist. Consumers are understandably anxious about the threat of disruption to their electric, heating, or water service. New products and services in the energy industry also provide an opening for scammers and pop-up companies to provide misleading information or shoddy products and services.

Avoid Phone Scams

A common phone scam begins with a phone number that appears to be from a valid utility company. The scammer claims you have a past-due account and threatens to disconnect service or take legal action.

You can combat this scam by being aware of the status of your account.

Never give your banking or personal information over the phone to someone you did not call. If you have a question or concern about your energy bill, call us directly at (530) 832-4261. Do not use the phone number given by the scammer.

Avoid Solar Scams

Another scam is connected to rooftop solar. Homeowners with rooftop solar may receive a sales call offering an accessory, upgrade, or extended warranty to their solar array.

These scammers may claim to represent a solar company, promising to replace faulty or broken parts or improve efficiency.

Call the company that installed the solar array if you think there may be a problem.

Use Trusted Sources

If you’re considering solar for your home, make sure you are working with a reputable company. Because this is still an emerging industry with evolving technology, there has been a proliferation of pop-up companies looking to make a quick buck.

Representatives of rooftop solar companies may have more sales experience than knowledge of the energy industry. Keep in mind their primary goal could be making a sale and moving on to the next prospect.

PSREC’s Community Solar Program

If you aren’t interested in rooftop solar, PSREC has a different option: buying solar power from PSREC’s Community Solar Program. Community solar allows you to use renewable power without making the large upfront investment in rooftop solar panels and provides members with solar energy that is maintenance-free to them.

It is a great option for members who are renting or live in an area with shading where a solar system would not produce optimal energy output.

PSREC Covid-19 Information

In this ever-changing environment, it’s important to remember you have a trusted energy adviser: your local electric cooperative. We are a community-focused organization that works to efficiently deliver affordable, reliable, and safe energy to our members.

At PSREC and Plumas-Sierra Telecommunications, the health and safety of our members and employees is a priority. We are committed to meeting the needs of our members, local businesses, and communities. If outages occur, our crews are ready to respond to both internet and electric outages.

If you have been economically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, please contact our billing department at (530) 832-4261 or email as soon as possible to make arrangements for paying your bills

Remember: We’re just one call or click away, so please reach out with any questions about your electric service or bills. We’re here to help.