Don't Be Scammed
By Peter Yukimura, Board of Directors

The energy industry is undergoing rapid change, and technology paves the way for innovation in the ways energy is used, produced, stored and shared. Consumers are interested in more green energy alternatives, while 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 and misleading information surrounding solar installations in particular. That’s because of two factors. 

First, 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. 

Second, new products and services in the energy industry provide an opening for scammers and pop-up companies to provide misleading information or shoddy products and services. 

A common phone scam typically begins with a phone number that appears to be from KIUC. The scammer claims you have a past due account and threatens to disconnect service or take legal action. The scammer typically demands you use a prepaid debit card or money order, often within a short, urgent time frame to pay the past due amount. 

You can combat this scam by being aware of the status of your account and knowing KIUC will never call you about a past due balance. Never give your banking or personal information over the phone to someone you did not call. If you have questions or concerns about your energy bill, call us directly at 808.246.4300. Do not use the phone number given by the scammer. 

Another scam we see from time to time 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. The calls could be from scammers claiming to represent a solar company, promising to replace faulty or broken parts or improve efficiency. 

Again, if you are not expecting the call, don’t be fooled. These calls offering misleading information are likely a scam. Call your solar contractor if you think there may be a problem. Other than occasional cleaning, rooftop solar—if installed 
correctly—is virtually maintenance-free. 

In this ever-changing environment, it’s important to remember KIUC is your trusted energy adviser. We are a not-for-profit, member-owned cooperative that works to efficiently deliver affordable, reliable and safe energy to our community. 

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