| As an ordinary citizen who is not a political consultant or activist, I tend to be non-confrontational when it comes to facing off with a large-scale entity. However, over the past few years, with false radio advertising and gimmick "savings" programs launched by TXU, I decided that it was time for me to express my view to the giant corporate body that my patience with them is as thin as dental floss. So here is the letter. Please let me know what you think.
Dear Sir or Madam:
I just read an email sent to TXU customers regarding your refer-a-friend program. What a joke. You guys already have a reputation for cutting the throats of us customers in just the right place- the pocketbook. From your false advertising on radio about how these hired guns supposedly switched back to TXU and experienced massive savings to your so-called bill savings plans, not many people are buying your schemes. After all, even conservative legislators who were part of the deregulation plan a few years ago are shaking their heads in disbelief. The Public Utility Commission is ready to put TXU's head on the chopping block for good reason.
In order to regain the public trust, all you have to do is one thing. Actually make yourselves competitive again, and TXU will no longer have the resonance of a four-letter word. While other energy providers (even startup ones) are looking great compared to TXU, you guys have an opportunity to re-earn your reputation. But until then, expect an even greater fallout- one more recently multiplied by a letter of one of your top execs to shut down some of your power plants. I myself am considering a switch. Last month, I was home a total of maybe four nights. My electric bill was $50 for four nights. And I hardly had any lights on, much less my air conditioner or heater. Who is setting those rates? The local taxicab company owner?
If TXU can, for the first time, demonstrate that it is willing to be a consumer-friendly corporation, I will be one of the first to stand up and applaud. But until then, I am on the verge of making that phone call to begin service with a provider that a) does not look to bankrupt customers for even little usage, b) is not a company that has made setup of service and other points of customer service difficult for customers by providing overseas service assistants who are virtually impossible to understand and c) does not laugh at state regulators and other public officials who are standing up for the rights and well-being of consumers.
Respectfully Submitted,
Trey Pope |
