New York Attorney General Letitia James is making an energy company based in Buffalo pay for deceiving customers all over the state. After launching an investigation into its business practices, Attorney James found that Family Energy misled customers. Family Energy, which is an energy services company that buys energy and resells it to customers, charged consumers more for electric and gas services. Some customers paid hundreds of dollars more per year. Attorney James secured $2.15 million in restitution from the company, which is located at 729 Main Street in Buffalo. In addition to the money, the state is requiring Family Energy to cease its dishonest practices.
Family Energy used deception to fool countless New Yorkers. My office has zero tolerance for deceptive and unlawful practices by energy service companies that hurt New Yorkers. Utility companies have a duty to be honest and accurate and we are committed to holding them to that standard. Today's actions should send a clear message to all energy service companies: if you don't follow the law, expect to hear from my office.
Family Energy used bait-and-switch tactics to lure customers. It promised cost savings, only to charge hefty early termination fees when customers tried to end their contracts with the company. Attorney James' also found that sales representatives for Family Energy enrolled consumers without their knowledge. Customers complained to the New York Public Service Commission about the deceptive practices of the energy services company. Family Energy had the most complaints in 2020 and 2021.
I found this video on Youtube from 10 years ago accusing Family Energy employees of scamming and trying to steal a woman's identity. The owner of the channel captioned the video with this,
On Saturday March 29, 2011 at approximately 4:00pm est. Two "enrollment agents" going door to door from a company called Family Energy visited my home. They tried to convince my grandmother into signing a contract with them to allow them to offer a discount on the electricity that Con Edison.
Credit: Louie Bee via Youtube
If you bought energy through Family Energy, you could be entitled to a refund. You can file a complaint online or call (800) 771-7755.