Hiko Energy

Review: On saturday february **, 2014 I got two sales representative from HIKO on my door, stating they where working in co-operation with CONEDISON of NY. They didn't explain that they where a power utility supplier company.

They told me that my electricity bill is to high, and they where able to get me a lower price. They explained to me that I had two (2) business days to cancel if I was not satisfied. I signed the agreement, and after I read the reviews online

about there business practices, I decided to call them and cancel teh agreement on the same day, that was saturday february **, 2014. I left a message to call me, as they requested on the phone number ###-###-####.

its now monday february **, 2014, I start calling them this morning at 8:00 am, and all during the day, without results, I called 10 times, no one ever called me back. I wish to speak to them, to cancel the agreement, since I had

two working days as of february **, 2014 to do so. Tomorrow is my last day in order for me to cancel, but I get no responds from them. Its a total disgrace what kind of business practices they have. I am in total shock how they handle

there customers.Desired Settlement: To cancel my agreement in the required amount of time as stated in there agreement they gave me, but I am unable to do so because customer service doesn't call me back.

Review: I am a [redacted] customer. On Friday, November [redacted], a rep from the HIKO energy company showed up at my apartment door, showed me a [redacted] bill and told me that he was there because [redacted] had potentially overcharged me for my bill for the last 6 months. When I pulled up my bill, he then proceeded to tell me that [redacted] had sent him out to switch all of the [redacted] customers over to HIKO because they were changing their supplier from a supplier in Dallas to one in Teaneck. He then took my account information and called the HIKO company and proceeded to change it. After he left, it just didn't sit right with me, so I called the [redacted] people and was told that [redacted] had done no such thing-- that people had called to complain that this company has been going out and misrepresenting itself to [redacted] customers. I have contacted HIKO's customer service department, but they did not pick up the phone. They have a voice message that states they will try to get back in touch with customers in 24 hours. I am contacting the Revdex.com because I feel like this is a serious issue. I'd really like to go to the police and file a report since I live in a secured apartment building and so this representative should not have had access to my building. I am concerned about my safety both physically and financially. They took sensitive information from me under false pretenses.Desired Settlement: I want whatever account transaction they put in motion on Friday to be terminated, and I'd like them to be held accountable to false advertising. I realize now, after searching on the internet, that this is not the first time this has happened with this company and that the information given to me is not simply one sales representative's spin to make a sale. This is obviously a tactic being pedaled by the company to their reps, and I'd like some action against it. If I think I have grounds for a police report, I will file one, but I want them held accountable otherwise.

Business

Response:

This customer will not be supplied by HIKO Energy. Per her request, the enrollment was stopped.

Regarding the agent’s behavior, this was inexcusable behavior from the agent. Agents are trained and must follow scripts, in order to avoid misleading a customer. Agents must disclose all of HIKO’s key terms and conditions so that customers know what they are signing up for. When an agent is found to have purposely misled a customer, they are immediately removed from the team. The agent that came to this customer's home will be investigated, and removed (if necessary), since we do not tolerate misleading behavior from our agents.

Written resolution has been sent to this customer.

Review: Representatives From Hiko Energy came to door stating that they were there to confirm my [redacted] account information so that I may receive my "rebate" check. It was explained to me that Hiko has been hired by New York State to make sure that the refunds are carried out. I got my bill and on the back, the representative pointed out a box on the back of the bill stating that I can "compare" the price of my energy cost with other service companies. This was supposed to be the verification of my being "overcharged". Then, the rep pulls out a "sales agreement". I refused to sign it and the rep quickly pointed out a box saying that I could discontinue the service in a month. I quickly disengaged from the rep and came inside to write down this fraudulent encounter. Do not open your door to Hiko.

Consumer

Response:

At this time, my complaint, ID [redacted] regarding Hiko Energy LLC has been resolved.

(By clicking "OK", your complaint will be closed as Resolved.)

Sincerely,

Review: I had a representative from Hiko Energy knock on my door. He was trying to sell me the electric supply service of hiko energy. He repeatedly stated that HIKO guarantees that there per kwh cost will be less than what CL-P Is offering month to month. Up to 20%. On my first bill, Hiko is charging way more than the what it should be. Without explaining how much they are charging & whats their rate.

My PSE&G Account No is: [redacted]My Home Address is: [redacted]Desired Settlement: I need a refund of $41.26 which was charged to me a Current Charges for HIKO Energy LLC without explanation. Also discontinue my service from HIKO and put me back to Supply from PSE&G for both GAS & Electricity.

I don't want any relationship with HIKO Energy.

Consumer

Response:

Somehow [redacted] from Hiko Energy replied to my emails and she has initiated the cancellation of my choice program for having HIKO energy as my supplier. As per their letter received from their side, my electricity will be switched back to PSE&G by 04/[redacted]& Gas by 05/21. That's satisfactory to me and agree with their cancellation terms in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me and the matter has been resolved.

Sincerely,

Review: The HIKO salesperson strongly implied that my having HIKO provide the elecrtic and gas products would result in savings on our utility bills and so I signed an agreement to have HIKO supply these commodities. He WAS careful to say that these savings were NOT guaranteed. Beginning about July **, HIKO became my supplier. When my first bill arrived about 1 month later, the HIKO charge per KWH was over $ .17, about 3 x the NYSEG supply charge; the HIKO charge per unit of gas was about 1and 1/2 x the NYSEG rate. I can only suggest that HIKO means "High Cost."Desired Settlement: I have terminated thew contract that I had with HIKO, but for the 2 months that HIKO was my supplier. I would be satisfied with a refund of about $71. This amount is based on billing for a total of 671KWH x $.10 per KWH "overcharge and 18.5 units of gas based on $.21 per unit "overcharge." These overcharge estimates are based on what HIKO charged vs. what I would have paid NYSEG. HIKO charged over $.17 per KWH, NYSEG about $.06 per KWH. HIKO charged over $.66 per gas unit vs. NYSEG charge of about $.45

Business

Response:

Although HIKO does NOT guarantee savings, per customer request we will be sending him a refund of $71.00. Written resolution and a refund check will be sent to the customer this week.

Both of his accounts (gas and electric) have been cancelled without penalty.

Business

Response:

On 10/**/2013, HIKO sent customer refund check number [redacted] in the amount of $71.00.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me and the matter has been resolved.

Sincerely,

I have received a refund check in the amount of $71 from HIKO. Thank you very muc for your assistance.

Review: This is the second complaint I'm filing a complaint with the Revdex.com because the 1st has not been resolved. I’m getting extremely frustrated with the lack of follow-through from Hiko Energy’s customer service department and all of their lies. They do not phone or write back and they claim they can't do anything because they are in the [redacted] office and the ** office has to resolve the issue. However, when I call the ** office, the call is redirected to Florida. I can't connect with anyone in NY.

Hiko Energy still owes me $195.46 for being overcharged in February 2014 and now another $68.30 for March.

On my February bill, I was charged for 961 KWH @ $.2990, while the utility rate at Atlantic City Electric is only $.0956. Therefore, I was overcharged $195.46 for my electric usage in February. Now I received a bill in March for $146.80 at a rate of $.187, while the utility is only $.097. Therefore, Hiko owes me another $68.30, for a total of $263.77. With that, I am demanding that someone contact me and send a check in the amount of $263.77. I was told when I signed up for this service that the rate charged by Hiko would be more competitive than the utility and would not exceed the amount charged by the local utility. This has not been true for several months now and I’m demanding a refund. I’m extremely tired of the SCAM Hiko is running and the bullying my wife and I have received from the customer service department. Hiko Energy & their employees are misleading consumers and grossly over charging customers. I have read all the horrible reviews on the internet and the “F” rating/reviews on the Revdex.com’s web site. I will not go away until this is resolved.

I have been over charged for every month I was using Hiko Energy gas and electric service. I called and wrote Hiko Energy several times to complain about being over charged for electric consumption in February and March of 2014. No one from Hiko is willing to help. They told me several weeks ago they would send me a refund as an answer to the Revdex.com complaint, but nothing has come? I need this resolved, ASAP!Desired Settlement: Refund in the amount of $263.76

Business

Response:

In regard to the complaint filed by [redacted], see our position below.

Q: The customer is specifically referencing two bills, February and March of 2014.The customer states that they are owed a difference of $195.46 for overcharges in February, and $68.30 for over charges in March for a total refund amount of $263.77.

A: This customer enrolled with HIKO’s monthly variable rate with two of HIKO’s incentives – six months of guaranteed savings and one free month of energy supply after 12 months of service. We evaluated his billing history and found that each month, for six months, we were either lower than [redacted]’s price to compare, or we adjusted the bill and sent customer a refund for the rate differences totaling $131.27.

The March bill was the seventh month of service and as stated in customer’s contract, after six months of guaranteed savings, the rate will automatically roll over to a regular variable rate with no guaranteed savings. This customer contacted us on 02/**/14, 03/**/14, 03/**/14 and on 03/**/14. We discussed at length the variable rate he rolled over to as per his contract. Therefore, customer is fully responsible for the full payment of this bill and no additional rate adjustments will be done.

HIKO will issue a refund in the amount of $64.20 as a final resolution to the customer. This will bring the total adjusted refunds to $195.46 sent to the customer. The customer will be notified via email of the investigation of this complaint and the final refund due.

In closing, we feel that we have been compliant with the enrollment and at this point there is nothing further that we can offer this customer.

Review: on 7/*/13 switched our gas electric provider to Hiko Energy with the guarantee of a 7% reduction in our costs, For the first 6 months everything was fine, in Jan 2014, our rates went up 25%, then Feb 2014, our rates sent up over 200% from Dec 2013. Twice as much as our previous provider's current rates (I contacted [redacted] and [redacted]). Upon receipt of the bill I contacted Hiko Energy 2/**/2014, I could not leave a message nor get anyone live, left message on 3/*/2014 and sent an email. Called on 3/*/2014 and sent email cancelling service.3/*/2014 and 3/* left another message. I finally received a generic email from a customer service rep stating that they're rates are variable and went up. I understand rates are variable but never in my lifetime has an electric/gas rate increased over 200% in one month period. I believe this was a true "bait and switch" service contract and many customers may not have noticed and the fact that they are not reachable is unacceptable.Desired Settlement: Jan 2014 Electric $164.46,Feb 2014 Electric: 420.87, March 2014 Electric $202.49, Jan 2014 Gas: $375.47, Feb 2014 Gas $550.51, March 2014 Gas $426.54

Business

Response:

In regards to the complaint filed by [redacted], please see our position below.

HIKO has investigated this customers complaint. Although we only offer a variable rate, we have kept our rates lower than the utility’s supply rates for most of the year. During the winter, however, the cost of energy skyrocketed, causing our rates to increase as well. As stated in our Terms and Conditions, our variable rate is based on the market, cost, supply and demand, and other determining factors.

Because of this recent rate increase, HIKO has been experiencing extremely high call volume. Because customers were having difficulty reaching our Customer Service Department, we expanded our CSD over the past few weeks. We have representatives working around the clock to respond to all customer calls, messages, and inquiries.

After reviewing customer’s complaint, terms of enrollment, and HIKO charges, HIKO has issued a one-time courtesy refund to this customer.

The customers accounts were cancelled without penalty and returned to the utility for supply on 4/**/14.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me and the matter has been resolved. Hiko has offered a one time credit of $400.00

Sincerely,

Review: Trying to cancel a third party agreement with HIKO energy. Emails and phone calls (made every day) are not returned.Desired Settlement: HIKO acknowledging the cancellation of our third party agreement.

Review: When I first signed up with Hiko in October 2013 I was promised a rate that would be 1 to 7% lower than that of PSE&G, and this seemed to be the case for a few months, with my bills staying at around the same price as they were before. Then on this month's billing statement, I was charged $421.58 for gas supply. If my supply came from PSE&G, I would have been charged just $185.51, producing a pricing difference of $236. I signed up with Hiko Energy under the assumption that at least for the first six months, my gas and electric bills would be lower, but instead, 4 months after signing up, I am being charged over double the rate I would get from PSE&G. On top of this, their customer service department is next to impossible to contact. As a student, I do not have the resources to be overpaying so extravagantly, nor would I want to even if I did.Desired Settlement: I would like my bill for this past month to be corrected to the rate that PSE&G offered. In addition, I would like to terminate my service from Hiko Energy after this has all been sorted out.

Review: Representative came to front door to advertise the energy supplier selected without great detail to pricing. The representative said that our bills would be a certain percentage cheaper if we switched to HIKO Energy and that we would receive a check in the mail for our highest bill after 12 months with this supplier. She also didn't tell us that HIKO Energy used variable rates. After we signed up, for the months of February - May our bills were insanely high. For those 4 months PPL Electric charged us a total of $330.77 but HIKO Energy charged us $1597.41 in that same amount of time.Desired Settlement: 1266.64

Business

Response:

In regard to the complaint filed by [redacted], please see our position below.

This customer was enrolled with HIKO Energy on a variable rate plan. Although we only offer a variable rate, we have kept our rates lower than the utility’s supply rates for most of the year. As stated in our terms and conditions included in your welcome packet variable rates increase at any moment without notice because they are subject to market conditions, in that retail prices fall and rise due to supply and demand principles on a daily basis.

Periods of extreme weather, such as this unusually cold winter can cause substantial price fluctuations. As opposed to a fixed rate contract where the rate will remain the same for a set period of time.

Review: I am writing this complaint regarding a service contract that should have been cancelled with HIKO Energy. Last year on April **, 2013, HIKO’s sales department had called me about a great savings off my energy bills if I signed up. I enrolled, but then canceled the next day on April [redacted] 2013 (because [redacted], my current provider had my account under worry free and an equal payment plan that had discounts). This cancellation was recorded under HIKO’s records.

However, I have been charged for four months starting June * through September 2013, which show double bill charges from both HIKO and [redacted]. This is a claim to the Revdex.com to report poor services from HIKO as a provider because of the following:

1) HIKO failed to cancel my account in its entirety (after I called and canceled one day after signing up) , they apparently canceled only the gas, but not the electric

I have called HIKO several times during this time, getting a voice recording on several occasions, and only speaking directly with their service department a few times over several months from September 2013 in an attempt to resolve. I had spoken with [redacted], a [redacted] there on Nov **, 2013 (the last time I heard from them) about a credit. They told me that they only canceled the gas account and not the electric. They apologized and said for an interim solution, they will send a $100 check for any inconvenience and will get back to me on a resolution. But I have not heard back on any refunds or resolution.

As a result, I have been delinquent in the overall [redacted] account which caused a $797 service contract charge (because I was unaware that my worry free contract was not paid since the HIKO bill was bing paid first).Desired Settlement: I had a total charge from [redacted] (for the HIKO portion of the energy bills) of $969.82 added to my equal payment plan (that I make to [redacted] of $510 per month). Because of this portion not being settled, [redacted] received only payments for the $510, which made me delinquent on my total account. As a result, [redacted] therefore canceled my worry free contract, and also sent me to collections. The worry free contract had resulted in a service contract charge of $797, which would not have resulted if HIKO had correctly canceled my account. I am requesting reimbursement for damages of $797 due to the incorrect cancellation on the part of HIKO Energy.

Business

Response:

In regard to the complaint filed by [redacted], please see our position below.

The customer is stating that an additional refund is owed after receiving a one-time courtesy refund. Customer states that the account was not canceled in a reasonable time frame. Customer states they could not get in contact with HIKO. Customer states they had been on a budget plan with the utility prior to enrollment with HIKO.

This customer enrolled on HIKO’s variable rate in April 2013. We received a request from the customer to cancel the account within the seven day cancellation period. Although we only offer a variable rate, HIKO rates were lower than the utility’s supply rates for the duration of the enrollment. As a courtesy, a refund was offered and accepted by the customer on 10/**/13 as a settlement of this issue.

The utility company was contacted in regards to the customers budget billing plan. The utility company advised " Third party supply charges are never included in our Equal Payment Plan amounts, they are a separate charge." The customer was advised to contact the utility company directly to get further explanation into this issue. Customer was also advised that the utility would re-rate and adjust her billing due to this error.

The customer advised they could not reach HIKO.

Because of this recent rate increase, HIKO has been experiencing extremely high call volume. Because customers were having difficulty reaching our Customer Service Department, we expanded our CSD over the past few weeks. We have representatives working around the clock to respond to all customer calls, messages, and inquiries.

We feel we have been compliant with the enrollment and at this point there is nothing further that we can offer this customer.

Review: A solicitor contacted us on the phone in September 2013 inferring that they were related to PSE&G and could offer us energy at a savings. There was no explanation as to the term of the agreement which I now understand through HIKO's online Terms and Conditions is 12 months. Nor was there an explanation of the excessive termination fees. Our energy bill remained relatively stable for the first 5 months (Sept '**= $534.07; Oct'13 = $540.29; Nov'13 = $576.47; Dec'13 = $710.44; Jan'14 = $698.71) with a huge increase occurring at the 6th month (Feb '**= $1,586.92). We believe that this business was conducting a bate and switch operation and further investigation online has shown that other people are experiencing similar bill hikes. We have tried numerous times to contact HIKO via phone. An automated system requested us to leave a message and then informs us that the mailbox is full. We contacted the NJ Board of Utilities (March **, 2014) and they sent a complaint to HIKO Energy requesting that HIKO contact us about termination of service. We have not received a response.Desired Settlement: We want our service with HIKO to be terminated and to be refunded the excess amount of our February bill (approx. $900). We will switch our energy supplier back to PSE&G.

Review: On 12/**/2013 one lady came to my house and said she has come to check if I have been overcharged by [redacted]. When I showed my bill she said you are getting charged high rates that are for outside NJ and if you switch to HIKO Energy you will receive up to 7% less rate for FIRST 6 MONTHS and then after 12 months of service one FREE month of service. She completed the formality to enrol and said switch will take 60 days.My HIKO Energy contract form has following printed about guaranteed savings:"HIKO ENERGY GUARANTEED SAVINGS AND FREE MONTH PROMOTIONHIKO will be 1-7% lower than the utility's price for the first six months of service. Afterwards, it will be rolled onto a competitive, monthly variable rate.After receiving twelve consecutive months of service from HIKO, you will be eligible for one FREE month of service."I checked my [redacted] bill online on 3/**/2014 that has FIRST MONTH charges from HIKO. HIKO gas charge is $109.38, [redacted] charge to compare is $34.58.HIKO charged 318%.For electric, it was mentioned charges are not available from the supplier.I tried to contact HIKO by phone and it kept going on voicemail.I searched on net and found so many similar complaints about HIKO.I called [redacted] and asked them to switch me back with [redacted]. [redacted] said based on meter reading schedule I will get switched back from 4/**/2014 for Electric and from 5/**/2014 for Gas.I immediately sent email to HIKO to respond about discrepancy in billing.After reminder HIKO replied on 3/**/2014 talking about increase in cost and informing about my cancellation dates. But they totally ignored to acknowledge about guaranteed savings for the first 6 months and did not say anything about refund/adjustment.I am very unhappy with this unprofessional behavior and failure to conduct business as per the contract.Today on 3/**/2014, [redacted] re-generated my bill that also include the electric supply charges from HIKO.HIKO electric charge is $35.02, [redacted] charge to compare is $20.31. HIKO charged 172%.Desired Settlement: 1) I want the difference in the charges for Gas ($74.80) and Electric ($14.71) for current bill to be refunded immediately (Total $89.51).2) HIKO charges for the future bills until it gets switched back to [redacted] should not be more than [redacted] otherwise I will have to file a new complaint for that.

Business

Response:

Good Morning,

This customer enrolled on a monthly variable rate in October 2013. During the winter, however, the cost of energy skyrocketed, causing our rates to increase as well. As stated in our Terms and Conditions, our variable rate is based on the market, cost, supply and demand, and other determining factors.

On 04/**/14 we contacted the customer and informed him of the variable rate plan and the rate increase. His cancellation have been confirmed. The natural gas account will be cancelled as of 05/**/14 and the electricity account will be cancelled as of 04/**/14. Also, a rate reduction will be added to his account for his final bill.

As per customer's request, we have done a one-time courtesy refund.

A copy of this resolution has been sent to the customer.

Thank you.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID# [redacted], and have determined that my complaint has NOT been resolved because:

1) I enrolled on 12/[redacted]/2013. In response to Revdex.com, HIKO is providing wrong enrollment period as October 2013.

2) Company sent me mail saying that they can only refund $56.76 and that is not acceptable to me. I want total difference of $89.51 as refund. They should charge as per contract (1-7% less guaranteed for first six months). It does not matter if their cost is increased. I should get what is in contract. I had enrolled only because rates were guaranteed to be less for first 6 months.

3) Hiko is making rate reduction only for final bill and not for next bill? That means, they intend to charge higher rates in next bill even after raising concern over such rates?

In order for the Revdex.com to appropriately process your response, you MUST answer the question above.

Sincerely,

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID# [redacted], and have determined that my complaint has NOT been resolved because:

In the last 3 billing cycles, even after adjusting the refund amount, net effect is that I had to pay $55 more than [redacted].

I am not happy with this because I did not get guaranteed saving for first 6 months.

In order for the Revdex.com to appropriately process your response, you MUST answer the question above.

Sincerely,

Business

Response:

In regard to the complaint filed by [redacted] (#3 rebuttal) please see our position below.

The customers complaint specifying that additional money is still owed after receiving a courtesy refund.

HIKO has determined that the customer will receive an additional adjustment which will reflect the price to compare of the utility rate for the final month of his service. This will be in addition to the courtesy refund sent to the customer previously.

This will be a final resolution and no further adjustments or refunds will be given. We feel that we have been in compliance of the enrollment and there is nothing further we can offer this customer.

Review: Our electric service was changed to HIKO in June of 2013. The representative stated that this service would be less expensive and the prices were competitive with our current service provider. They explained how we would still have our current service as the delivery charge and they would represent the electric charge. During the summer months we did not keep track of our services charges, so did not realize that their charges were actually more than our current provider.

I will only go back for 3 bills, from from 11/**to 12/**/13, 12/24 to 1/**/13 and 1/24 to 2/**/2013 to compare what the energy charges would have been if we stayed with NYSEG and what our charges WERE with HIKO Our meter was read on October **, December **, 2013 and again on 2/**/2013. It is read every other month. I will give only the energy charges to simplify this.

11/**/2014 to 12/**/2014 2547 kwh used @ 0.15900 billed for $404.98 (from HIKO). With NYSEG their cost was 0.076 kwh the cost would have been 193.57. The difference being $211.41.

12/**/2014 to 1/**/2014 - 1818 kwh used @ 0.16525 billed for $300.42 (from HIKO) With NYSEG their cost was 0.076 kwh, the cost would have been $138.16. The difference being $162.26.

This last bill is where HIKA increased their price. My feeling is that they knew that this actually read of the meter would be extremely high due to the frigid winter and they increased their prices considerably.

Their was no notice of this extreme increase. We are requesting the differences refunded for the past 3 months, but if we can't get all 3 months, we would like this past month of 1/**to 2/**to be refunded.

1/**/2014 to 2/**/2014 - 3630 kwh used @ 0.24174 billed for $877.53 (from HIKO). With NYSEG their actual cost was 0.076 kwh, the cost would have been $275.88. The difference being $601.65.

We are so disturbed by this and cannot afford this bill. We realize that we should have been keeping better track of the prices, but unfortunately, trusted the sales pitch and didn't notice until our bill was pheonominally high.

I don't have much trust that I will reach a [redacted] or anyone at HIKO that will do anything about this.

I called HIKA on Tuesday morning and reached a message machine, which stated they would return the call within 24 hours. Called a few more times trying to reach a live person. When I did reach a phone representative I asked for a [redacted] after I saw the conversation was going nowhere. Someone else came on the phone and basically just grunted. He did not even introduce himself. I was told after asking what his name was and who he was, that he was not a [redacted], "just a customer representative". I asked for the [redacted], again, and he said that she would not be in until Thursday. I called again on Wednesday, and again reached a recording, left a message, and have so far not received a call back from Tuesday or today. It is peculiar that there is no [redacted] available.

I should mention that we heat our home with a woodstove with electric as backup. Thank you.Desired Settlement: We are requesting that HIKO live up to their sales pitch and refund the difference in price, had we stayed with NYSEG. The difference for the past 3 months would be $975.32. We are not going back further, as we are fault also, for not keeping track.

Consumer

Response:

At this time, I have not been contacted by Hiko Energy LLC regarding complaint ID [redacted].

Sincerely,

Business

Response:

Good Afternoon,

We reviewed this complaint and have found the following. After listening to the Third Party Verification (“TPV”) recording that was completed by account holder's husband at the time of the enrollment on 5/**/13, we found that he acknowledged and accepted HIKO’s variable rate. HIKO’s variable rate reflects the market, supply and demand, our cost, and other determining factors. This was confirmed in the TPV, as well as the welcome packet that was sent out shortly after the enrollment. HIKO made no promise to beat or match the utility’s price to compare each month.

Although we only offer a variable rate, we have tried to keep our rates competitive each month. During the winter, however, the cost of energy skyrocketed, causing our rates to increase as well.

Due to this recent rate increase, HIKO has been experiencing extremely high call volume. Because customers were having difficulty reaching our Customer Service Department, we expanded our CSD over the past few weeks. We have representatives working around the clock to respond to all customer calls, messages, and inquiries.

Besides for our recent rate increase, we also noticed that the bills went up due to the usage. Your usage jumped from 1,800 kWh in one month to over 3,600 kWh the next month. The monthly usage is given to us by your local utility – if they are unable to read the meter, they send us an estimated meter read which causes the bill to be billed incorrectly.

This customer electricity account has been cancelled as of 02/**/14 with out any penalty.

A copy of this resolution has been sent to this customer.

Thank you.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID# [redacted], and have determined that my complaint has NOT been resolved because:

We feel that by HIKO charging 3 times more than the local company in the coldest months of winter, is simply taking advantage. It is hard to believe that 0.24174 per kwh s the market price compared to NYSEG at 0.078 per kwh. And that by charging this price in the month after an estimated month, is simply taking advantage of people's useage. Most people could not even get to their meters the estimated month due to snow to read them. So, therefore, the next month would be more, due to the extreme weather.

We tried to initially get in touch with HIKO and there was not even a Supervisor on the premises, and we were told there would not be one for a few days. This in and of itself is probably bringing up the cost of HIKO by not properly running the business. 2 months later, and we are finally hearing from HIKO stating that they plan to do nothing about our bill for $877.53 bill for one month. Keep in mind that electric is our supplemental heat.

We are not satisfied at all with this company and their resolution. This matter has been filed with the Public Service Commission.

In order for the Revdex.com to appropriately process your response, you MUST answer the question above.

Sincerely,

Business

Response:

Good Morning,

This customer filed the same complaint with the New York Public Service Commission. We resolved this complaint through the NY PUC on 04/**/14.

On 04/**/14 I called and spoke with [redacted] and explained to him that he authorized enrollment for the variable rate plan and how the rate fluctuates on a monthly basis. Also explained the rate increase that happened in the winter months. Additionally their usage doubled from one month to another causing his charges to increase as well.

We have done everything in our power to settle this with the customer. We feel that we have been complaint and at this point there is nothing further that we can offer this customer.

Thank you.

Review: The electricity supply charge doubled over the course of one month and almost tripled over the course of a few months. The company provided no explanation as to why. Their current charges are triple what I can get on the open market. They were unapolegetic and offered no settlement in a phone conversation/complaint. Because the electric bill is somewhat dense, I believe the company is doing this in the hopes that most people simply won't noticeDesired Settlement: a refund and guarantee that my rate increases will be explained

Consumer

Response:

At this time, my complaint, ID [redacted] regarding Hiko Energy LLC has been resolved.

(By clicking "OK", your complaint will be closed as Resolved.)

Sincerely,

Review: I received numerous phone call on a new unlisted, unpublished phone #. I don't know how they got the number. The rep gave me a flimsy reason that they were calling the new number. I let her convince me to accept their offer of lower electric rates but when I did research online I immediately called and cancelled. They are very convincing, stating that they are offering a remarkable savings on my energy bill, all with CL&P's blessing. I should have never let her talk me into it, but I fell for her salespitch!Desired Settlement: I have called the no soliciters number and was told it would take a month. I don't want anyone from Hyko Energy to call me and I want them to destroy records of my new unpublished,unlisted phone number.

Business

Response:

Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We have investigated this complaint.

We do not yet have any record of this consumer in our support. This Customer's phone number has been placed on our internal Do not contact list.

If this customer did complete an enrollment with HIKO, the account will be cancelled as soon as it is submitted resolution has been sent to this customer.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me and the matter has been resolved.

Sincerely,

I had a salesperson show up at my home at 8pm one evening in the rain, to talk about switching my provider to HIKO. After being promised a low FIXED rate, I agreed to switch and when I spoke with the person on the phone, they also confirmed a fixed rate. I received my first bill and all was as they said. Well, the next month's bill comes in and the rate has DOUBLED. I contact customer service, and the only response I get is costs have increased. I stated that 2 representatives from their company stated that the rate would be FIXED for the first year, but they would not acknowledge the comment. They are completely unwilling to reduce the bill stating the only way they would give a refund, even a partial, is to have active service with them for 12 months.

Review: hello

sir/madam

I don't know how to start my complaint and I called my lawyer already because we got my last bill for 861 dollars which un realistic because I used to pay only maximum 200 dollars per month so this ridiculous I feel u guys play a game doing tricks because one day guy knock my door and he told me we are related to PSEG campany and join us to save more money and idid join suddenly I got 861 dollars which is crazy and when I called the customer service they did not help me and they said I have to pay without any explanation iam gonna Use the law to protect me because you guys cheat on me and are such a liar and robber and I know how u guys believe on mouth word I already tell every body about what happened to me and I don't think this is gonna help u guys to grow and just let u know I did already open Facebook page against u called "hiko energy robber " and also my lawyer told me when I show him the bill that this impossible because we are not living in house so I need a solution ASAP because iam not gonna let u guys use me or any body we are in country has A LAWDesired Settlement: Billing Adjustment

Review: I have been at my current resident for the past 12 years, my average bill in the winter months are between 300-400 (electric heat) per our conversation via phone your promise to my was that your company would be at a cheaper rate than my current supplier, which I agreed to convert too. For the billing of December **2013 to January **2014 the HIKO Energy charges were 294.34. Then January 13 2014 to February **2014 the energy charges

jumped up to 934.67, which seems to be astronomical. When I spoke to your representative via phone about this I was informed about their price hike, which I was never advised of, ( it went from 9.56 cents to 29.99 cents per kw) with this knowledge I canceled their service. I am on a fixed income, and would like to know if I can file a hardship against these charges, thank you for your prompt attention [redacted]Desired Settlement: adjustment to my bill

Review: Hiko Energy contacted me via telephone soliciting my patronage. I was told that by using Hiko Energy as a supplier for energy, that their services would save me money monthly, lower than the price from my current supplier, and that after a year of service with Hiko, that they would also refund me the highest month of my supply services. After speaking to the representative, they used high pressure tactics to get me to agree to switching to them as a provider. They ran through a high pressure list of terms for me to agree to. After talking to my husband about this, he did research into the company and found many, many complaints and stories of overcharges, being taken advantage of, poor customer service, poor business practices, etc.

We tried calling Hiko multiple times then to cancel, with no answer, and when leaving messages, no return phone calls. We were not able to reach anyone to cancel. I contacted my local energy company, [redacted], who bills us, to cancel the HIKO service, but they said I needed to contact HIKO directly to do so. Since we were unable to reach anyone with Hiko to cancel, our first bill processed with them as a supplier. My prior energy supplier was [redacted] (supplying the energy on my [redacted] bill), which charged $0.0542 per kWh.

My usage 1/**/14-2/**/14 was 3432 kWh. For a usage of 3432 kWh times a charge of $0.0542 per kWh, the total charge would have been $186.01. Hiko charged me an unbelievable amount of $511.37 for that usage!!! That is a difference of $325.36!!! Not to mention the fact that they don't even show on the bill what their charges are for. It only reads "HIKO Energy, Energy Charge, $511.37". This is on top of my regular [redacted] distribution charges.

I had called Hiko Energy on multiple occasions after seeing my first bill. Every time I called (during business hours), a message would come on that all their representatives are busy assisting other customers and to leave a message, and they will get back to me in 24 hours. I did not receive any response.

On March [redacted], a representative from [redacted] finally was able to request a cancellation for HIKO, but it still did not process. I continued to have HIKO energy charge me for the periods of 2/**/14-3/**/14 and 3/**/14-4/**/14. On 3/**/14, I finally was able to reach a customer service rep with HIKO and requested to speak to a supervisor regarding the charges, I was told I would get a return call, and again, I never did. Nothing was done to resolve the charges.

For the period 2/**/14-3/**/14, our usage was 2660 kWH. Per our prior rate, 2660 kwh times a charge of 0.0542 per kWh, the total charge should have been $144.17. HIKO charged us $252.70, and did not list any rate on the bill. The difference between what HIKO charged and what we should have been charged, is $252.70 - 144.17 = $108.53.

For the period 3/**/14-4/**/14, our usage was 1385 kWH. Per our prior rate, 1385 kwH times a charge of 0.0542 per kWh, the total charge should have been $75.07. HIKO charged us $152.35, and the rate listed (for the first time) was $0.11/kWH. The difference between what HIKO charged, and what we should have been charged, is $152.35 - $75.07 = $77.28.

I have been off work since October 2013 due to an extreme decline in health and medical complications, and we had already applied for utility assistance with our local Community Action Agency prior to receiving our initial bill with HIKO charges. We were already struggling to provide for our family and keeping our two children safe during the winter. HIKO has taken advantage of us. Due to our lack of income and the exorbitant amounts that they charged us, we were unable to pay the entire utility bill and our utilities were shut off in April 2014. We were charged an additional $310 to get our utilities turned back on.Desired Settlement: I am seeking a refund for the overages that HIKO charged us.

1. For 1/**/14-2/**/14, Hiko charged me $511.37 for electric usage of 3432 kWh, and my previous provider would have charged $186.01 ($0.0542 per kWh) for the same usage. I was overcharged by $325.36 for this time period.

2. For 2/**/14-3/**/14, Hiko charged me $252.70 for electric usage of 2660 kWh, and my previous provider would have charged $144.17 ($0.0542 per kWh) for the same usage. I was overcharged by $108.53 for this time period.

3. For 3/**/14-4/**/14, Hiko charged me $152.35 for electric usage of 1385 kWh, and my previous provider would have charged $75.07 ($0.0542 per kWh) for the same usage. I was overcharged by $77.28 for this time period.

4. I am also seeking a refund for the $310 that [redacted] charged due to the disconnection in our service, due to the fact that we could not afford to pay the entirety of our bill due to the extremely high charges from Hiko Energy.

The total damages for items 1-4 are $821.17.

Business

Response:

In regard to the complaint filed by [redacted] please see our position below.

I spoke with the customer today, this issue has been resolved. The customer has accepted a settlement as a final resolution to this complaint.