May 29, 2025 | SWEEP statement
Caitlin Gatchalian, Nevada Representative

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The recent disclosure that NV Energy overcharged over 80,000 customers by more than $17 million is a reminder of the importance of utility transparency and strong consumer protections. While we recognize that steps are being taken to issue refunds, we believe this situation highlights why utility billing must be accurate, easily understood, and subject to fair oversight. 

This moment underscores the importance of uncomplicated rate structures that customers can clearly understand and verify. Unfortunately, the proposed addition of a “demand charge” for all residential and small commercial customers in Nevada Power’s current rate case before the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada (PUCN) moves us in the opposite direction. 

This revelation highlights the dangers of a rapid, wholesale, mandatory shift to a complicated pricing model. Given that NV Energy has erroneously billed customers under existing rate structures for years, serious doubts now pervade. Not only NV Energy’s ability to internally implement even more complex rates with accuracy, but also their ability to effectively educate customers about significant and complicated changes. 

At Southwest Energy Efficiency Project (SWEEP), we remain committed to advancing energy efficiency programs that reduce costs, protect low-income customers, and support a cleaner grid. We’ve worked closely with NV Energy, the PUCN, and community organizations on strengthening these programs, including improvements to the utility’s Demand Side Management portfolio and the adoption of a more accessible Time-of-Use rate structure in 2023. 

Mistakes like this make clear how important it is to have utility programs that are not only efficient and equitable, but also accountable. We remain committed to working with NV Energy, the PUCN, and community partners to advocate for fair, transparent, and uncomplicated rate structures for all Nevadans.