CONSUMER ALERT

Don’t Fall Victim to Misleading Claims About Energy Conservation Products

Consumers report receiving unsolicited telephone calls from aggressive sales people claiming they are selling energy conservation products that will substantially reduce Hydro bills. The caller misleads consumers into thinking they are a representative of a local or provincial power company. The caller then claims that the power saver device will reduce the currents on power supplies and appliances in the consumer’s household, resulting in Hydro savings of 25% to 50%. The device is being sold for around $150.00 with payments being made by cheque, money order or credit card. Numerous consumers allege that these power saver devices typically do not work.

One business active in the Saskatchewan market this is MI Power Savers who operate from a post office box in Biggar, SK but seem to be centered in Ontario. Other names associated with this scam include Hydro Power Saver, Hydro Power Energy, and Global Concept Enterprise. Product has been shipped from an address in St. Laurent, Quebec. In Saskatchewan telemarketing activity by a business requires a Direct Seller’s License. The BBB has confirmed with Consumer Protection that no such Direct Sellers license has been issued.

The BBB recommends consumers consider the following tips before purchasing any energy conservation product:

• Before purchasing an energy conservation product be sure to do some research to make sure you understand exactly how the product works, as well as what the benefits, costs and risks are.

• Always check a company’s BBB Business Review out at sask.bbb.org (locally) or bbb.org (internationally) before making any purchase.

• Never feel pressured into making a purchase. If a sales person is being aggressive, simply hang up the phone, close the door, or walk away.

• Know that while some power saving devices are reported not to work, there are many legitimate energy saving devices that do work. For example current-sensing power bars can help reduce the energy output of your desktop computer, during non-working hours.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of this type of fraud, report it to the BBB of Saskatchewan (306) 352-7601 or (888) 352-7601.