Chesco's Dinniman: PECO Must Improve Customer Service

PECO must improve their customer service, especially in the wake of large storms, according to State Sen. Andy Dinniman (D-Chester).

“The number one complaint I hear from constituents is that they cannot get straight answers from PECO and they are continually strung along about when their service will be restored,” Dinniman said on Thursday.

“ First they are told power will be restored at 11 p.m. Then the next day it is 3 p.m. Then they are again told 11 p.m. And this goes on for days.”

PECO has said that they are hoping 95 percent of all residents will have power restored by Friday after Tuesday’s storm.

They’ve also said that restoring power is delayed in some places because they have to wait for emergency crews to clear downed trees and power lines.

Dinniman said he understands the difficulty of the situation but that there has to be a way to facilitate clearer communication.

“It is not unreasonable to expect to get accurate updates and estimates from a public utility company,” Dinniman said.

The loss of power has affected seniors, who have been forced to go to the hospital because their oxygen tanks ran out of batteries.

Timely and accurate information is vital for these groups, according to Dinniman.

“The bottom line is there has got to be a better way of communicating with customers than simply giving them the run-around via automated phone message.”

“And considering PECO is currently requesting a 6 percent rate increase for customers, I suggest they find it.”

Photo courtesy of State Sen. Andy Dinniman’s office.