Pensioner shocked by hefty Genesis Energy power bill
BY SARAH FOY
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A New Plymouth pensioner says she will struggle to pay a $2427 power bill from Genesis Energy that arrived unexpectedly in her post.
Shirley Clark, 80, is liable for the catch-up account because meter readers say they haven't had access to her meter box – in a basement garage – for two years.
She's been paying a monthly account of $180 but that's only been an estimate. Now Genesis Energy wants her to make up the difference and pay by November 12.
Mrs Clark, who is hard of hearing, said she was shocked by the account, and disputed the access claims.
"They said the garage door was stiff and awkward to open but why didn't they bother to come and talk to me, or leave a note at my door."
Mrs Clark is also puzzled by the high amount, saying she's careful with her power use. "I fill up my hot water bottles from the hot tap but I don't do a lot of cooking these days," she said.
When she complained to Genesis they suggested she pay it in monthly instalments or seek financial help from Work and Income.
Genesis Energy's general manager retail, Dean Carroll, said Mrs Clark's meter had not been read since April 2008. At least eight different meter readers had said they couldn't get into the garage because the door was stuck or locked. Several letters to Mrs Clark explained this.
"We realise that this is a large amount and therefore are happy to arrange a flexible payment arrangement with Mrs Clark.
"On several occasions we have offered different payment options, including a guarantee that she would still get her 10 per cent prompt-payment discount, but unfortunately Mrs Clark has not been willing to discuss this with our staff to date."
The meter reading company offered to visit her property yesterday so they could ascertain what the issue with the door was but Mrs Clark declined the offer, he said.
- © Fairfax NZ News
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