Meter readers should leave an official record of their readings with customers

Dear Editor,

More than two months ago the following suggestion (see copy of letter attached) was submitted for consideration of the Public Utilities Commission. Even with the prospect of reduced outages, I still think that it is an idea worthy of consideration.

“In the light of experience I thought I may submit the following suggestion for the consideration of your Commission.

“Particularly over recent months it has been noticeable that the GPL’s monthly bills… remain consistently at the same amount. Any differential is usually an increase.

“What is curious is that according to the payable amounts… the meter reading does not take account of the inevitable and frequent blackouts.  Which leads me to reflect on the accuracy of the readings, or whether the latter is ignored and the customer is arbitrarily billed regardless of the actual readings.

“It is not unreasonable to assume that this experience applies to a good proportion of GPL’s customers. It would be of great help to their confidence in the integrity of the billing system, if it were made mandatory for meter readers to leave with customers an official record of the results.

“This should prove the extent of the differential in the reading as a result of blackouts; and will certainly assuage anxiety about the accuracy of GPL’s bills.

“Grateful for your kind consideration.”

Yours faithfully,
E B John