The Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) has begun sending service shutoff notices to thousands of customers throughout the city who have failed to provide access needed to have automatic meter reading (AMR) devices installed or maintained in their homes.

PGW is required to obtain an actual meter reading for billing purposes at least every six months and a customer must give PGW access to their property to install and maintain an AMR device as a condition of service.

The majority of the customers subject to shutoff have been receiving estimated bills for at least six months. In some cases PGW has been attempting to make appointments with customers to install AMR devices for two years or longer. PGW has provided these customers with multiple notices -- including letters, phone calls, visits, and, finally, a shut-off notice -- urging them to contact PGW to make an appointment to provide access to their natural gas meter.

To avoid a service shutoff, customers who have received notices should contact PGW at 215-235-1000 as soon as possible. If it becomes necessary for PGW to shut off service, the reconnection charges could range from $100 to more than $400, and this cost must be paid in advance to have service restored.

Because of the difficulties involved with gaining access to properties to obtain accurate meter readings on a regular basis, PGW began a program to install AMR devices in all customer properties more than ten years ago. This current initiative is being undertaken in an effort to complete the AMR program and to bring the PGW into full compliance with Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission requirements.

Founded in 1836, PGW is the nation's largest municipally owned natural gas utility, serving a half million residential, commercial, and industrial customers.

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