By Jason Hidalgo, Reno Gazette Journal
NV Energy is preparing to reimburse overcharged customers after reaching a resolution with the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada.
The refunds, which total $63 million, were first announced Tuesday, Feb. 24.
“The resolution reached is an important milestone, and we are pleased to move forward in making customers whole,” said NV Energy President and CEO Brandon Barkhuff. “We know this mistake caused frustration and financial impact for our customers, and I am truly sorry for that.”
The resolution was welcomed by the Nevada Conservation League, which works on climate, air, water, land and health issues.
The refunds are long overdue, said Kristee Watson, executive director of the Nevada Conservation League.
“This is the right thing to do for customers, but it should never have taken this long,” Watson said.
“Customers should never have to discover billing errors themselves or fight to be made whole.”
Here’s what customers need to know about the overcharging issue and who qualifies for reimbursement.
What is the reason behind NV Energy’s $63 million refund?
The $63 million refund from NV Energy stems from the misclassification of some ratepayers, causing them to pay higher rates, according to the company.
How will the NV Energy refunds be issued?
Refunds will be issued as credits for current customers or checks for those who are no longer customers of the utility.
Who is eligible for a refund from NV Energy’s $63 million resolution with the PUC?
The refund is limited to residents of multifamily properties such as apartments, townhomes and condominiums who were “inadvertently billed under single-family rates,” according to NV Energy. Only multifamily residents were affected by the rate misclassification, according to NV Energy, which means no refunds are due to residents of single-family homes.
How do I know if I am one of the affected ratepayers who will be getting a refund?
NV Energy will notify customers who were affected and are due a refund.
“They do not need to take any action,” said Meghin Delaney, a spokesperson for NV Energy. “No signup or anything else required.”
NV Energy will release more information publicly once it starts issuing credits and refund checks, Delaney told the Reno Gazette Journal.
Customers can also call NV Energy if they want to confirm if their apartment, townhome or condo was incorrectly classified as a single-family residence. The customer service numbers are:
- Northern Nevada: 775-834-4444
- Southern Nevada: 702-402-5555
When will NV Energy start issuing refunds?
NV Energy was unable to provide an exact date when it will start paying out the refunds.
“While the company is committed to moving quickly to return funds to customers, the refund process will take several billing cycles to complete to ensure every customer receives the accurate amount,” the company said in a statement.
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