Dear Consumer Advisor, On top of the sky high utility bills I pay every month, my utility has informed me that I am required to pay a deposit of $200 in order to continue receiving service. I've been a customer for years and was never asked for a deposit. I don't understand why all of a sudden they are demanding such a large sum of money. How did they come up with the amount of the required deposit? What's going on?

Slammed by an unexpected huge electric bill? It could be a billing error.

Learn how utility deposits are determined, whether or not you have to pay them, and what rules your utility company has to follow.

Is there a rule or a law that requires electric utilities and local phone companies to show up for repairs when they say they will?

Dear Consumer Advisor, I get so frustrated every time I have to call my utility company! The phone menu rarely offers what I want and never seems to lead to a real live human being. Is there any way to avoid the endless phone menu and connect with someone who can actually help me? Sincerely, Wanna Person

Before you sign up for PG&E's SmartRate program, make sure it is right for you.

Customer complaints about Smart Meters must be heard. TURN recommends the following steps to restore public confidence in smart meter technology.

ClimateSmart isn't a smart investment. TURN urges the CPUC to ask PG&E to use the remaining funds to purchase carbon offsets and abandon its failed marketing campaign.