The electricity companies have become the target of the new campaign of controls launched by the General Directorate of Consumer Affairs of the Balearic Govern, after detecting indications of fraud both in the application of prices and in breach of the conditions promised in marketing, according to the head of that department, Félix Alonso.
The first company to be sanctioned, with a proposed fine of 24,000 euros, was Iberdrola, but other cases are already being investigated, according to the report. To this end, collaboration with consumers has been requested so that they can report this type of behavior on the part of these companies.
Félix Alonso states that up to now, indications of two types of irregular behavior have been detected on the part of some of these companies. Firstly, he points out that complaints have been received by Consumer Affairs due to the fact that the electricity companies agree on a stable price for a year with the customer, but then apply increases before this period has expired and without adequate justification.
The Regional Ministry warns that companies cannot unilaterally break the agreements
In this sense, the general director reminds that any modification to these types of tariffs must be properly justified one month in advance to the client for reasons that are included in the contract, and among these does not include the increase in the price of energy or inflation, since the commitment acquired is to maintain a stable price during a determined period of time.
Breach of contracts
In this sense, Alonso warns that companies cannot unilaterally break the aforementioned agreements.
These types of situations are what have led the Consumer Affairs of the Govern to open the first of the proceedings linked to this campaign on the company Iberdrola, for alleged serious misconduct and with a proposed penalty of 24,000 euros. This company has the possibility to present allegations or may opt for voluntary payment of the fine with a 50% discount.
Complaints essential for Consumer Affairs
This case has been opened following a complaint filed by a customer of the aforementioned electricity company on the islands, hence Félix Alonso insists on the importance of users reporting this type of behavior to Consumer Affairs, beyond the surveillance that this department carries out on the web pages to be able to detect irregularities in the offers made by these companies.
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