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

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.

Consumer Advisor — Understanding How to Keep Gas Bills Low

How to avoid a power shut-off this winter. The most common reason utility service is shut off is nonpayment. However, even in cases of nonpayment, there are certain requirements and limits a utility must abide by before disconnecting a customer.

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

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 am confused about how baseline quantities are determined and what they mean. I thought the baseline amount was supposed to stay the same, but the baseline allotment that appears on my bill seems to change from month to month. Will this affect how much I pay, and if so, how?

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.

The CARE program provides a 20% discount on monthly gas & electric bills for qualifying households. Qualifications are based on the number of people living in your home and your total household income including wages, government checks and benefits, and other financial support you or members of your household receive.