In 2011, smart meters will be fully deployed to SDG&E's million+ customers.   The rest of the country is following suit with mass deployments of smart meters and creations of Smart Grids, microgrids, and other forms of "intelligent" two-way electric distribution systems.   What does all of this mean for consumers?  And how will consumers fare in this new energy service world?   The California PUC put those questions to stakeholders in its effort to fashion utility Smart Grid deployment plans.   Here's UCAN's take.

Consumer beware.  LTD Financial Services, LP is a debt collection company that appears to harass and use abusive collection tactics on consumers whether they owe a debt or not.  One of our UCAN senior members was a victim of this practice. Our Chinese senior complainant was called incessantly and neighbors and family members were called to try to humiliate her into paying this debt.   Read More!

Tired of the same old ball and chain you fall asleep to every night and wake up to every morning? Fed up with the monthly recurring burden you pay the ball and chain just to be able to talk when and where you want? No, this isn't about an over-protective parent or significant other.  We are talking about your cell phone contract. A pre-paid cell phone plan might just provide you with an escape from the monthly  burden.that some refer to as a wireless bill.

On December 8th, the head of the State Senate announced that the Senate would not hold a hearing to confirm PUC Commissioner Rachelle Chong. Chong, who has been severely criticized by consumer groups, was first appointed in 2006 and had been seeking a term that would have lasted through 2014.   If Chong is not confirmed this year, she will be forced to step down from the Commission.   This is the first time in modern history that a PUC appointment has been rejected by the Senate.  Read why.................

Telecom and utility companies use the National Consumers Telecom & Utilities Exchange (NCTUE), a members-only, unique Equifax database to review consumer credit history. The question remains whether the Fair Credit Reporting Act applies to the NCTUE and what information consumers should be able to obtain about themselves.

Congress is considering the creation of the Consumer Financial Protection Agency. UCAN urges its adoption as not only in the best interest of the consumer, but also the financial industry.