Watch CBS News

Md. Agency Investigates Meter Reader Complaints

BALTIMORE (AP) -- The Maryland Public Service Commission says it's investigating complaints that Potomac Edison overbilled some western Maryland electricity customers by failing to read their meters as often as required.

The agency opened a case file Tuesday on customer complaints that their meters were read less often than every other month, as required.

The Frederick-based Sugarloaf Conservancy says the company read their members' meters an average of four times during a 13-month period in 2011 and 2012.

The complaints allege that the practice resulted in usage estimates that exceeded the amount of electricity consumed.

Potomac Edison acknowledged in July that it missed some readings but said its estimates were fair. It said it would put more meter readers in the field.

Potomac Edison is owned by FirstEnergy Corp, of Akron, Ohio.

(Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.