30-807 - Arizona Statutes

30-807. Consumer outreach and education A. Public power entities shall be responsible for ensuring and overseeing a comprehensive public education program regarding electric generation service competition. Public power entities and the commission shall coordinate their respective rules and procedures for public education programs to promote consistent implementation statewide. The program shall be designed to do the following: 1. Educate retail electric customers about the changes in the electric industry. 2. Provide retail electric customers with accurate and unbiased information so that retail electric customers may make informed choices when participating in the competitive electric generation service market. 3. Encourage public participation in the decision making process relating to establishing a competitive electric industry. B. Public power entities shall work with interested parties including community based consumer advocate organizations to develop and implement an outreach and education plan. This plan shall include: 1. The dissemination of information by means of interactive approaches, as well as brochures or other written materials and a variety of mass media outlets. 2. An explanation in clear and plain language of the basic concepts of competitive electric generation service including the following issues: (a) The effects of competitive electric generation service on retail electric customers and consumer programs. (b) The basic responsibilities and risks retail electric customers assume with competitive electric generation service. (c) The basic criteria for selecting a retail electricity supplier or provider of other services. (d) Where the retail electric customer can find information on consumer protection, customer complaints and dispute resolution programs. (e) The resources available for additional information including listing a toll free telephone number. 3. Publicized public forums conducted in several geographical areas of this state to obtain public input and provide opportunities for exchange of questions and answers. 4. Targeted efforts to reach rural, low income, elderly, non-english speaking, disabled, minorities and at-risk populations.